tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-68714173462130025452024-03-05T00:46:51.021-08:00Notes By DonnaA blog about the lessons we learn in life. The ups and the downs. Inspiring others and sharing experiences.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525720601301449621noreply@blogger.comBlogger16125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6871417346213002545.post-72380453584807531342018-02-23T11:18:00.001-08:002018-02-23T11:18:43.316-08:00Time For Me<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKhyphenhyphenxN32HjmAP8ka8tbiDEDrtWTsYo8Fj3NGzt8XwZx5L1fm8bPNpXYo_QyEHvAipdYNw2d-PH5U41beuqHtw3WBtlPqGO34-Er_iEYXjFDxulISsRB_h8oSUf2BxdVmM3qYHpl_92lNC5/s1600/radio+silence+%25289%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKhyphenhyphenxN32HjmAP8ka8tbiDEDrtWTsYo8Fj3NGzt8XwZx5L1fm8bPNpXYo_QyEHvAipdYNw2d-PH5U41beuqHtw3WBtlPqGO34-Er_iEYXjFDxulISsRB_h8oSUf2BxdVmM3qYHpl_92lNC5/s1600/radio+silence+%25289%2529.png" /></a></div>
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As most of you will know I recently got back from an EPIC trip to Bali. I took myself off to a retreat for a week. ALL BY MYSELF.<br />
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I will admit to you now that a couple of weeks before I was due to depart I was overcome with anxiety about what was ahead. Should I really be travelling to the other side of the world on my own? Did I deserve to go on a retreat? Was I even in the headspace to do that? Have I worked hard enough to justify this? Will I let myself down? Will it change me for the better or the worse? Will I connect with people?</div>
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Well THANK GOODNESS I got on that plane and went. </div>
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At the airport, my boyfriend dropped me off and after we said our goodbyes, I checked in and made my way through security it suddenly hit me.</div>
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THIS IS IT.</div>
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I plucked up the courage after pacing past Jamie's Bar five times - yes, you did read that right - FIVE times it took me to actually feel brave enough to go and sit with a glass of fizz on my own while I waited for my gate number. Sipping on my Elderflower Fizz I had a strange sense of calmness creep over me. This was something I hadn't felt in months - I think I had prepared myself for total mascara-running-down-the-face-meltdown!</div>
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Sitting there watching other passengers bustling about beneath me, I won't forget the calmness I felt in my body. It was like a fog had lifted from my eyes, my shoulders were lighter and my mind felt still and grateful. 'Thank You' my head told me. 'Thank you for making <b>you</b> do this.'</div>
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The 10 days that stretched out before me were just for me. It felt fresh, exciting and what I knew my mind, body and my heart and soul needed.</div>
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In that moment I felt free. Suddenly I wasn't controlled by the time on the clock, schedules, routines or work. I liked that feeling. I was liberated.<br />
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Why do we push ourselves to the bottom of the pile?<br />
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Why do we not allow ourselves time for true reflection? To forget responsibilities and just be. To really connect with ourselves.<br />
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We all get complacent I think. We all rush around life ticking off the next task or going to the next event in our diaries. We have moments of time for us in that bubble bath we prepare, the quick shopping trip we sneak in before the school run or the quiet night with a book.<br />
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But when do we <b>really</b> just have time for us? Time when we aren't distracted or interrupted?<br />
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We look forward to quality time (by this I mean an extended amount of time from a day to a few weeks or months) with loved ones and friends but ask yourself this; when was the last time <b>you</b> had quality time just for you?<br />
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For some, like me, it may be you've never had that before or perhaps you've tried to avoid it?<br />
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I really encourage you to book in that time.<br />
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Take yourself off for a week or a long weekend. If that's too much spend a day out walking in your favourite place, treat yourself to a pub lunch, take yourself off to the spa. Just you. Just be.<br />
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Allow yourself to be free. To be open. To fully embrace every single moment of time for you. Have time to reconnect with yourself. Take your journal and just write whatever comes to you. Get clear on you and where you are at with yourself. What changes do you want me make? What are you grateful for? What's next?<br />
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It will work wonders.<br />
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Your body will thank you. Your mind will thank you. And most of all your heart and soul will thank you.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525720601301449621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6871417346213002545.post-19176175611157023912018-02-18T04:21:00.000-08:002018-02-18T04:21:59.042-08:00Reflections Change<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi34-LjrELr4eEwsIEJHkXBHJRQQvZubKRQ93lhcMeVy7iZoRTj8lFUc0ChZwomSLc_HVGDpOD_NkO5Rdn223lG7fd-zDyOypaJC3Ok1a6bMnXQkoFTKZyabtJwmxDXYQ6PwfdIJhpyP0bi/s1600/radio+silence+%25287%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi34-LjrELr4eEwsIEJHkXBHJRQQvZubKRQ93lhcMeVy7iZoRTj8lFUc0ChZwomSLc_HVGDpOD_NkO5Rdn223lG7fd-zDyOypaJC3Ok1a6bMnXQkoFTKZyabtJwmxDXYQ6PwfdIJhpyP0bi/s1600/radio+silence+%25287%2529.png" /></a></div>
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Growth. Change. Development. Transformation. Evolution.<br />
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We are constantly changing. From baby to toddler, toddler to teen, teen to adult. Life is this ever changing cycle we are all part of. Every living thing is part of. The flowers, the trees, the birds, the sky, the stars...it's all always changing, always moving, always growing.<br />
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Even ancient ruins. Even pathways that have held the footsteps of many for thousands of years. These homes of 'forever' have changed over time.<br />
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A little bit mind blowing when you think about it.<br />
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I've been thinking a lot about change recently. Triggered by a quote I read in Grief Works by Julia Cohen - a book I read after the passing of my beautiful Nanny Pat.<br />
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When we look in the mirror the person we see has changed. We look at a photograph of ourselves, and wonder at the innocence of that smile.</blockquote>
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Undoubtably there is so much truth in this. But it wasn't until I sat with it for a while and really thought about what this was all telling me about life.<br />
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We grow, we learn and we develop ourselves on the inside through experience, stories, books, conversations and therapy but why is it we look at our physical reflection or a photograph and think, who is that person? Why do we suddenly disassociate our physical self with the emotional challenges and changes that life brings every single one of us?<br />
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Why do we look at a reflection and feel saddened at what stares back at us?<br />
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Perhaps its a way of disassociating ourselves with what life has presented us with? Perhaps its denial? We all have a story. We all have wounds. And we all have chapters in our life we'd like to turn the clock back on.<br />
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But what about if we started looking at our reflections and at those photos of years gone by with a little more acceptance? Pride. Gratitude. What if we started to really connect with the changes and the growth inside of us throughout life instead?<br />
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Imagine for a second that we could take a photograph of our emotions. Imagine the changes in your mindset that you could see. Think about what those changes would look like. Visualise it for a moment or two. Something about this suddenly feels different...<br />
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Now what do you see when you look in the mirror?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525720601301449621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6871417346213002545.post-11721756967588401212017-12-01T06:49:00.001-08:002017-12-01T14:00:26.213-08:00Radio Silence<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx0qDClBZ1qHujDX5FTgiFKkcXIp9LVZq-L6219ibMXIKdKiF21zmQUwgQawvdltcQrXy_U_suPp2zpe63ZEQ-Fg3JY2nuzoWpLD48CLVzata4hZkSsacTs71-GCLYDEpKxrJq_Zd1oEMI/s1600/radio+silence.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx0qDClBZ1qHujDX5FTgiFKkcXIp9LVZq-L6219ibMXIKdKiF21zmQUwgQawvdltcQrXy_U_suPp2zpe63ZEQ-Fg3JY2nuzoWpLD48CLVzata4hZkSsacTs71-GCLYDEpKxrJq_Zd1oEMI/s1600/radio+silence.png" /></a></div>
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The title of this post has changed a number of times. It's sat in my drafts since the end of October. And it's theme has altered many times too.<br />
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Today, its the 1st of December and it feels like the right day, the right time to actually hit the 'publish' button.<br />
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ADVANCE WARNING - This could be a long one, so make yourself comfy. Make a brew.<br />
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This morning I started typing a post on my Instagram about the radio silence I've been delivering recently. I've been off social media, I've cancelled most of plans, I've taken a step back from my work. Not because I wanted to. Because I had to.<br />
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Shall we get started at the beginning then?</h3>
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I remember that feeling when I woke up on 30th October 2017. The clocks went back so we got a cheeky extra hour in bed and the sun. The autumn sun was out in full force.</div>
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The day before I had spent the afternoon with my best friend, my Mum and my Auntie, drinking Gin and giggling our way through a Gin Festival. I had a date night planned that evening with my boyfriend. </div>
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I woke up that Sunday feeling content. </div>
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Life was good. I was happy. </div>
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Before my Mum and Auntie headed back home to the Midlands we decided on an impromptu visit to Sheffield Park for a walk. </div>
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It was just beautiful there. </div>
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Autumn leaves in full force with the most amazing colours reflecting in the waters of the lakes and many visitors taking part in their own Autumn themed photo shoots, throwing leaves up into the air, clicking the camera at that right moment. </div>
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We even spotted a stunning Kingfisher up in the trees to the delight of my Auntie. They are her favourite. But she's never seen one in the wild. </div>
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Something in the air that day felt special. </div>
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Almost magical. </div>
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Seconds later. Everything changed. </div>
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A phonecall from my Dad, followed by a mad dash back to the car and a drive that felt like it would never end. I didn't know if we would make it. </div>
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This could not be happening. </div>
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The woman I never imagined life without was preparing to leave us...</div>
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A series of events</h3>
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That day sparked a change. A shift in life. And one of those moments that you can never really prepare yourself for. </div>
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The 'grief train' as I call it, had arrived at my platform once again but this time it all felt a little different.</div>
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I spent the next few days wondering how we really just 'get on' with life? When you lose someone you love, is it ever actually possible? Does it change you as a person? How does your life keep going when they were such a huge part of it?</div>
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For the first time, in a really long time I felt lost. And then, it hit me. Literally. </div>
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What followed was a car accident and a health scare. What was happening to me? Why was this all happening right now?</div>
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None of this is your fault</h3>
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None of this is your fault they kept saying. It's just a big bump in this road of this journey we are all on. </div>
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What I felt was a sense of guilt. I don't know why.</div>
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It took me a couple of weeks to get over that. What was happening around me wasn't my fault and that life was just serving me another lesson. A lesson to make me stronger. </div>
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That's why I needed to take a step back. </div>
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When something huge shifts in your life, or a series of events shift your universe it is SO important to understand the lesson, see the meaning and take that step back. More so than ever, because we live such fast paced, 1million mph lifestyles that we never really have time to just sit, be still and learn, do we?</div>
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Changing reflections</h3>
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The last month my reflection has changed. </div>
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I've gone from deep, deep sadness to insecurity to anxiety to, this is okay, I'm okay and here I am. </div>
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I've realised that life changes us, it changes how we see ourselves. </div>
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I've been lucky to have some incredible support from friends and family but my biggest lesson has been that when I really need it, I've got my own back. It's up to me. </div>
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You <i>can</i> find that courage, you <i>can</i> find yourself....totally. It's amazing how you can help yourself when life really, really throws you down. </div>
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Now, I'm better. I'm stronger. I've learnt so much and I know, I've totally got this. </div>
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And so do you.</div>
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D xx</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525720601301449621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6871417346213002545.post-16017931701117907262017-03-20T09:15:00.000-07:002017-03-20T09:20:49.551-07:00#FreelanceLife: 2 Years On<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirM3QPrvho6Ndgi131YHHk5RxJ2UZSdq9LXS5YUPH7gmyMuViaDaKS4LCO8kY2GP2Tzke2pgUfx4Cc0PhRrAL1Sl16f8dH5gKoyvtHFe42rJvOOSvoehxwGR0lgvR1wWKuGLLU7TisNBDX/s1600/blogcover+%25283%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirM3QPrvho6Ndgi131YHHk5RxJ2UZSdq9LXS5YUPH7gmyMuViaDaKS4LCO8kY2GP2Tzke2pgUfx4Cc0PhRrAL1Sl16f8dH5gKoyvtHFe42rJvOOSvoehxwGR0lgvR1wWKuGLLU7TisNBDX/s1600/blogcover+%25283%2529.png" /></a></div>
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'Are you trying to get to Brighton?' she said. 'Yep, it looks like the world and his wife are hey?' I said.<br />
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And that was the moment. That was the start of my #FreelanceLife. A chance meeting on the platform at Lewes train station. That chance meeting that became my first client and my longest standing client to this day. Two whole years on.<br />
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Today, my LinkedIn pals have been congratulating me on TWO YEARS of becoming my own boss, becoming the force behind my own future and becoming the person I always dreamt of being.<br />
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I know this will sound cliche.<br />
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But...<br />
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Time flies when you're having fun. So much fun.<br />
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Working for yourself and doing a job you love is fun.<br />
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Working for yourself is incredibly hard. But it is incredibly rewarding.<br />
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<b>What have I learnt in 731 Days?</b><br />
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<i>I've learnt to be prepared. </i>Be it a chance meeting of a prospective client somewhere totally random or a last minute meeting request - I ALWAYS carry my laptop, my business cards and a notebook. Even if I'm technically not 'at work'.<br />
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<i>I've learned to believe in myself.</i> Before I found the world of Freelance I felt like I constantly had to prove myself in some of my previous roles. We all like to receive a little recognition and a little pat on the back when we've done something good don't we? It builds our confidence. Now, there is no better feeling than when a client turns to me and says; 'Donna, this is amazing.'<br />
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<i>I've learned to put my business hat on.</i> We've all been there. Overdrafts, credit cards, loans - whatever it is that still haunts us from our days of being a student we all hate talking about money and we all sometimes get ourselves in a bit of a pickle. But working for yourself you become a little bit obsessed with budget sheets, invoice trackers and expenses. You work hard for it and you aren't afraid to ask for it on time, or ask for what you know you deserve.<br />
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<i>I've learned to say no.</i> There are some projects that land in my inbox that I just think, this isn't me. And that's okay. There are some projects that land in my inbox that request favours or 'pay later' terms. And the answer is no. I've learnt the hard way with this before. Never work for free when you're a freelancer. You've worked bloody hard to get here. You wouldn't go and do your food shop at Tesco, then get to the till and say - 'Can I pay you next week?' would you?<br />
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<i>I've learnt to take better care of myself.</i> Working for myself has worked wonders on my relationship, my friendships and my mental health. It's taken some time and some ups and downs and a whole lot of figuring out what works for me but this lifestyle suits me. It doesn't give me sleepless nights, it doesn't bring me out in a rash and it doesn't make me question myself. I am in total control and I make sure (most of the time) I take breaks, I relax and I get regular massages for sitting in front of a screen for too long! #FreelancePerks<br />
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<i>I've learnt the universe really does have your back.</i> This might be heavily influenced by the fact I'm reading said book by Gabrielle Bernstein, but this is true. There have been times when I've felt like throwing the towel in. But, once I take a step back and revaluate, I see things clearly and it's like someone, somewhere brings more work or that invoice gets paid...when you believe you can - there is always someone out there cheerleading for you.<br />
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Finally, <i>I've learnt that #FreelanceLife brings you the most amazing set of new friends and connections.</i> From Pippa at <a href="https://www.brightongirlmag.com/city-girl-network/" target="_blank">The City Girl Network</a> to Dan at <a href="http://www.digitalteamondemand.co.uk/" target="_blank">Bamb</a>, to Rosie at <a href="http://www.digitalteamondemand.co.uk/" target="_blank">Digital Team on Demand</a> to Felice at Jellyfish and SO MANY MORE, being a freelancer has introduced me to so many amazingly talented individuals and a whole circle of new friends. And that's not including my totally awesome set of clients who I class as friends <i><b>and</b></i> colleagues - these are the guys that made it happen for me and these are the guys I am <u>FOREVER</u> grateful for.<br />
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<b><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />What's next?</b><br />
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I can confidently say that I never <i>want</i> to 'work for' anyone again. I can also confidently say that I <i>will </i>never 'work for' anyone again. This life suits me. And I love this life.<br />
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The next 731 days look INCREDIBLY exciting. There is a new business venture for me just around the corner, one that I feel proud of and one that I feel has been brewing over the last 24months. I can't wait to share it with you all...<br />
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And so, to the last two years and to everyone who has believed in me, thank you. I wouldn't change it for anything.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525720601301449621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6871417346213002545.post-90998711306251147092017-01-03T14:19:00.000-08:002017-01-04T03:03:38.743-08:003 Lessons I Learnt in 2016<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyw2CCDGzHUbhRfY6cFVs362NNRmhy4Iy4NNzDOxyOfR27NoZcWyzg6duWcfInDQrwenzevyJIurLlmYP1ZuwsDyxKl7nUtR9fprSMBxgywVQry2gdJvzJxrKPMGfeAYM0eSk4YlV8B3NY/s1600/blogcover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyw2CCDGzHUbhRfY6cFVs362NNRmhy4Iy4NNzDOxyOfR27NoZcWyzg6duWcfInDQrwenzevyJIurLlmYP1ZuwsDyxKl7nUtR9fprSMBxgywVQry2gdJvzJxrKPMGfeAYM0eSk4YlV8B3NY/s1600/blogcover.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">2017 is officially in full swing and I've been taking some time out over the last few days to plan my goals for 2017, as well as looking back on the 365 days that have just passed and some of the lessons I learnt throughout 2016.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>1. Find your Tribe</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Find your tribe. I found more than one tribe in 2016. From new friends in extended circles who I now class as some of my best friends, to meeting the amazing <a href="http://brightongirlmag.com/" target="_blank">Brighton Girl</a>'s - this year I learnt that your 'tribe' can be incredibly powerful. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Meeting like-minded individuals and sharing life stories within minutes of saying 'Hello, my name's Donna', planning trips to here there and everywhere and giggling like your 10 years old again. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Uniting with people you never imagined your life would lead you to, can have an amazing affect on your happiness, your wellbeing, your belonging, your confidence. All of it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I encourage you to find your tribe. Find a local social group, take a deep breath and go along to a meet on your own. Trust me, you won't look back.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>2. Don't Rush</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Whether you're 21 and you haven't passed your driving test yet, or you're nearly 30 and you haven't flown the nest; don't rush. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">In the middle of 2016 I was in full panic mode. I was almost 28, I was still living at home and I had no immediate plan to move out. Suddenly it felt like all my friends were buying houses, getting married and having babies. I hadn't even thought about any of that.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Then before I knew it there was a big old change happening in my life and quickly I moved out into my first place. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Looking back now I realise I never needed to panic, to rush, or to worry about what the world thought about me living at home with Mum. None of that really mattered. And actually <a href="http://www.notesbydonna.co.uk/2016/12/flying-nest.html" target="_blank">I learnt so much by being at home</a> just that little while longer. </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">I'm a firm believer that things will happen when they're meant to and not a second before. </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>3. You Will Survive</b></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">Life can be a real shit. Can't it? </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">Life can turn upside down in seconds. One minute everything in the garden is rosy and then one phonecall, one email, one knock at the door can throw everything out the window. </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">But no matter what happens, no matter how tough life is, you will survive. </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">You can have what feels like an endless supply of bad news but when life feels like it's all downhill just take some time to appreciate the things that can pick you up.Your family, your friends, your health, job or that running club you go to every week. Never take the good stuff for granted, it's there for you.</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">With bad times, there will come good. Just don't lose hope and remember you will survive. </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">I'm taking these lessons with me into 2017 and I'm already excited about the year ahead. I'm ready and armoured! </span></div>
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</style>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525720601301449621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6871417346213002545.post-57255223169781695182016-12-29T09:39:00.000-08:002016-12-29T09:41:20.891-08:00Flying the Nest<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4G7QAEBQO8e3kvj4Lu7F2eDIx1ia8kH46DaXrvI69EM0M0d4tiibrGHgb1Xi8IwRLtnpKYlhXd6l2wOh7TlHX3wYIvGKalUXUymOhrTCS6ltt3DnijvuuelpWj-TO_UQ8rvqiSCRTnYjz/s1600/homepost.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4G7QAEBQO8e3kvj4Lu7F2eDIx1ia8kH46DaXrvI69EM0M0d4tiibrGHgb1Xi8IwRLtnpKYlhXd6l2wOh7TlHX3wYIvGKalUXUymOhrTCS6ltt3DnijvuuelpWj-TO_UQ8rvqiSCRTnYjz/s1600/homepost.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I've finally flown the nest.<br />
<br />
Moving out. Those two words I thought I'd put into action many years ago when I finished Uni. I thought I'd be the girl who never came back home after Uni. I pictured myself living in London or maybe New York, working in a high rise building, living in a high rise building, working for a blue chip company and being a 'proper grown up.' But life doesn't always go the way you think does it?<br />
<br />
I became a home bird. I loved spending time with my family. I didn't like change, I didn't like separation and I didn't like thinking about life without my family. But things do change and seperation does happen. Relationships end, people get sick and sadly we all leave this earth at some point...<br />
<br />
These experiences taught me to cope better with big changes in life but at the same time it made me become more anxious. I worry about people a lot. Perhaps by being at home this whole time I felt like I had a comfort blanket, something there to protect me from the bad stuff? But the bad stuff happens anyway, right?<br />
<br />
I've been so lucky to have such a close knit family. My parents, my brother and I are all so close. We've all followed different paths and we've all been through our own ups and downs but no matter what we stick by each other.<br />
<br />
My mum and I are incredibly close.<br />
<br />
We have PJ nights with endless hours of boxsets and plenty of chocolate. We can gossip for hours about an article we've read on the Daily Mail App (guilty pleasure!). We bake. We shop. We laugh hysterically. We support each other through the storms without judgement. Like two peas in a pod.<br />
<br />
Being at home, I thought I'd never grow up (that's my inner Peter Pan right there!) and the boxset binges would never end.<br />
<br />
Circumstances change, life throw's you a curve ball, you fall in love, you suddenly feel like an adult. And voila - you're on a totally different track to where you thought you were going. But that's okay, that's the pathway that fate leads you to and that's the pathway to your next chapter.<br />
<br />
For me, instead of that high rise flat and that high flying job, I've just moved to a beautiful village in the middle of the countryside and I earn my living by being a digital freelancer with a passion for reading books. It might not be what I dreamt when I was a little girl but right now I'd say I'm living the dream.<br />
<br />
Life is all about chasing those dreams. Dreams can change and alter. What makes the dream real is a feeling of wholeness, contentment and happiness. Accepting that whatever has been and whatever will be is out of our hands and what is happening right now is all just part of our exciting journey.<br />
<br />
So hey, it might have taken me longer than others to flap those wings and fly the nest but in that time I've ironed out some new hopes, I've learnt a few lessons and without really even thinking about being 'an adult', I've reached adulthood with open arms bigger than I imagined.<br />
<br />
It's okay to be a bit different isn't it?<br />
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</style>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525720601301449621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6871417346213002545.post-31517144892974391802016-10-28T07:20:00.001-07:002016-10-28T07:20:46.263-07:00When Change Comes Knocking<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT91X0yl8-Kw7v0_mFI2ElwYlybMM4GM7VBHBs6DzPKnCcf9VWf8C_5ubju8m5pg74Lj9nbbVZnEWImnjgk-dm7GzVARCW2Wxp-udvNcMV55RB40qm4kdADMlZW3ZC7p9Asd_ANVRDr1QM/s1600/Blog-header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT91X0yl8-Kw7v0_mFI2ElwYlybMM4GM7VBHBs6DzPKnCcf9VWf8C_5ubju8m5pg74Lj9nbbVZnEWImnjgk-dm7GzVARCW2Wxp-udvNcMV55RB40qm4kdADMlZW3ZC7p9Asd_ANVRDr1QM/s1600/Blog-header.jpg" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
I'm a Libran. That makes me incredibly indecisive. I find it difficult to say 'No' and I make every effort to make sure everyone around me is happy. I like harmony and balance. <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Do I like change? Well I don't think any of us like lots of changes all of the time, do we? <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Over the last 4 years, I have embraced change and I've learned a lot about how change can make you a stronger person. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The next few months will see a BIG change happen in my life and in anticipation of this I thought I'd share my thoughts on the subject of change...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We make decisions every single day of our lives. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
What to wear to work? </div>
<div>
What to eat for lunch? </div>
<div>
And even what time to go to bed. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Our routines are based on a series of decisions knitted together to form a sequence...something that becomes familiar. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Something we call day-to-day life.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Our routines can be affected by big life events like love, health, death and money. And sometimes we can feel like our lives are 'all over the place' - a little off balance, a little uncertain. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Waiting in anticipation of something to change in our hectic routine to put the balance back in the picture. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We wait for the world to change.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Going through uncertainty can be massively stressful for us. We can't sleep because our minds race with thoughts and anxiety about tomorrow. We panic about the future - 'Where will I be?'. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Our foundation feels like it's been built on a plate of jelly...know that feeling?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But with patience and strength, I believe we can fix that wibbly wobbly foundation, come out the other side and <i>make</i> the world we live in change. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I recently made a BIG decision. A decision to finally fly the nest. At the ripe old age of 28. Some might think this is really old to be leaving home but actually, I just needed to wait for my world to change slightly so that I would make my world change...take that leap finally, no backing out. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
When something happens beyond our control it's like fate is telling us it's time. The world is making a decision for us. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And so for me - my fate has told me over the last couple of months it's time to fly the next and create my new pathway. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
However anxious I might be feeling about moving out I am also excited. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'm excited to be taking charge of my future. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'm excited to be a little less of a 'Libra' and think about myself and my journey a little more. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It's good to take care of yourself now and again isn't it? </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'm sure the emotions that I will go through over the next few weeks will be a huge mixture of ups and some downs, but what's important to remember is that change is positive and change can help solidify that jelly on a plate.</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525720601301449621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6871417346213002545.post-59511794035900565922016-09-14T12:28:00.001-07:002016-09-14T12:28:58.511-07:00#30before30: Get A New Piercing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD9k9NiPdF_O6RKIX_q1-HfCJF_OhrmfnKwMYrON-YC9Rj3WO2i9xn9V_LuUYbstTuoVHKc5xcVc0DB1pjoLo81GqWM5IHG7Ocd6dja9YsuU9V8LbcNBfzn8-VD7VrSLYWGfUfcRJ6LBpt/s1600/blogcover.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD9k9NiPdF_O6RKIX_q1-HfCJF_OhrmfnKwMYrON-YC9Rj3WO2i9xn9V_LuUYbstTuoVHKc5xcVc0DB1pjoLo81GqWM5IHG7Ocd6dja9YsuU9V8LbcNBfzn8-VD7VrSLYWGfUfcRJ6LBpt/s640/blogcover.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Hooray!<br />
<br />
I've done it. I've ticked off one of my 'to-dos' before I hit the big 3-0.<br />
<br />
A couple of weeks ago I accomplished number 21. I got a new piercing.<br />
<br />
On a completely random afternoon after a meeting finished I had some free time before meeting a friend for lunch and so I stopped by the wonderful team at <a href="https://www.punktured.co.uk/" target="_blank">Punktured, Brighton.</a><br />
<br />
Having had my ears pierced when I was 8, I begged my parents to let me get my belly button pierced pretty much everyday between the ages of 13 and 16. And on my 16th birthday off they took me to Punktured to get the job done. Since then I've never had another piercing anywhere other than Punktured. I trust the team there totally and can highly recommend them to anyone who is looking for a friendly piercing studio. So clean, helpful, patient and just a really nice bunch of people!<br />
<br />
I have 4 or should I say 5 piercings in total. My belly button, first ear lobes - standard, my tragus and now the top of my right ear - not even sure what this is called?! Is there a technical term?<br />
<br />
I did actually have every intention of getting my nose pierced would you believe but I have decided against it...for now. So off I went to get the top of my ear pierced!<br />
<br />
I had the super friendly Eli pierce my ear for me and even though I'd been in the chair before, Eli put me at total ease asking me about my day and chatting through the procedure with me - we even found a common love for mindfulness and meditation! Eli helped me decide on the perfect position for my piercing and we settled on positioning the ring just slightly lower than the usual spot. I have a tiny bump in my ear so my new piercing hides this well!<br />
<br />
It's now been a little over 3 weeks since I had my ear done and it's healing really well. I bathe it with salt water twice everyday and so far I've managed to refrain from picking, scratching and twisting the piercing - it's healing nicely.<br />
<br />
It cost £26 to get the piercing done and that included a small silver ring - there is a selection of bars, rings and studs to choose from and after your new piercing has healed you can change it up.<br />
<br />
I'm now thinking about my next one...maybe I should wait till after I'm 30 now though?!<br />
<br />
Have you got any piercings? Have you ever had anything done at Punktured?<br />
<br />
DAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525720601301449621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6871417346213002545.post-68878820410442046342016-08-16T01:25:00.002-07:002016-08-16T01:26:58.000-07:00Digital Detox Your Holiday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEScEQ3UhFUDWykdVRjOy_wKzQ2I8s9ivkKc85fACYgja1GKl_dkBtvYSsqNtoZgRtwLllYrNMjEy9fztPxtTeRt7OojzeVYs572bYvV4Tp03cjozfggrOrzHyanIXYgWTxhuMjcy-Z2DM/s1600/blogcover+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEScEQ3UhFUDWykdVRjOy_wKzQ2I8s9ivkKc85fACYgja1GKl_dkBtvYSsqNtoZgRtwLllYrNMjEy9fztPxtTeRt7OojzeVYs572bYvV4Tp03cjozfggrOrzHyanIXYgWTxhuMjcy-Z2DM/s640/blogcover+%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Working in Digital Marketing it is incredibly hard to go on a total digital detox.<br />
<br />
And that's not an excuse I know. Maybe this is a weakness?<br />
<br />
But the nature of my job means I keep my finger on the pulse most of the day - I check what's trending on Twitter, I follow Facebook Live events and I monitor Instagram stories from top influencers many times a day. It's second nature to me.<br />
<br />
So how did I take a step away from it all on my recent trip to Dubrovnik? Here's a few tips to help you go on a digital detox while you soak in the sun...<br />
<br />
<b>1. Leave your phone in your room</b><br />
<br />
Perhaps the easiest way to step away from the digital world is to simply leave your phone in your room. Lock it away in your safe if you've got a day round the pool planned.<br />
<br />
What's the worst that could happen?<br />
<br />
You can pop back at lunchtime to check your messages if you're expecting a call but when your phone is out of site it's probably out of mind. Now pass me a cocktail!<br />
<br />
<b>2. Turn off all your notifications</b><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
If you're on annual leave, chances are you've set an 'out of office' on your emails or if you're a freelancer like me you might have dropped your clients a note to say that you're away and will only be checking emails infrequently. That way no one can expect an immediate response from you.</div>
<br />
<br />
Turn off your notifications too - if you need your phone when you're out to call a taxi either turn off your data or just remove your notifications.<br />
<br />
Do you <i>really</i> need to worry about what your best mates brother is having for dinner when you're busy sipping Sangrias? Thought not.<br />
<br />
<b>3. Pack a camera</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
With thanks to the smart phone it's too easy for us to forget to take cameras out and about with us now. We can take a snap of whatever we want, whenever we want.<br />
<br />
But with a smartphone it's not just about taking a photo off the cuff.<br />
<br />
It's now all about adding a filter, posting to Snapchat, sharing on Instagram, checking in on Facebook...oh all the places that photo needs to go.<br />
<br />
But the reality - well it doesn't.<br />
<br />
So invest in a decent hand-held camera, hold off on the sharing functionalities and just get totally lost in snapping shots of the scenery and sunsets.<br />
<br />
4. Build a playlist on an iPod<br />
<br />
Old skool? Nah. I recently did this whilst I was away with my niece and my mum. We spent the weekend listening to some tunes we had loaded to Mum's iPod instead of streaming from Spotify.<br />
<br />
It made the whole thing a little more enjoyable as we took ourselves back to some of our favourite songs when I was young and introduced my 6 year old niece to some classics - without having to rely on wi-fi!<br />
<br />
5. Read an actual book<br />
<br />
Don't get me wrong I love my Kindle. One of my favourite things I own. But when I'm lazing by the pool or about to get on a flight I love a good book in my hand.<br />
<br />
I love it when you finish a book on holiday and by the time you get home the pages smell like suncream and the cover adorns a few grains of sand.<br />
<br />
Maybe it's a nostalgic thing...<br />
<br />
6. Meditate<br />
<br />
Step away from the phone. Step away from the tablet. And step away from your computer.<br />
<br />
Focus on you and see if your hotel or resort holds any mediation sessions during the first couple of days of your holiday.<br />
<br />
Or book yourself in for a mindfulness and meditation class before you take-off and get to grips with what it feels like to just be present.<br />
<br />
It'll change your life.<br />
<br />
What do you do to unwind on holiday? And do you find it hard to totally switch off? Would love to here your top tips!<br />
<br />
DAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525720601301449621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6871417346213002545.post-75286208517761987822016-07-26T09:47:00.000-07:002018-02-18T04:42:20.508-08:0030 Before 30: The List<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLiTQmoN65LG_6iGs6_ItQQolisGEhwv3AAQa7kjt1orsieDiKpVLnakz0a1w8J1_sfoWW7_BXZXU269LhxHgYYs9zzzIUtjIUzDXkO5VhZ7Kbiv7P-swa03jwcAZUDRw9IKJqh6H3hdVM/s1600/blog30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLiTQmoN65LG_6iGs6_ItQQolisGEhwv3AAQa7kjt1orsieDiKpVLnakz0a1w8J1_sfoWW7_BXZXU269LhxHgYYs9zzzIUtjIUzDXkO5VhZ7Kbiv7P-swa03jwcAZUDRw9IKJqh6H3hdVM/s1600/blog30.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I remember being a Bridesmaid for the first time when I was about 7 years old. The bride, a family member was in her mid 20s at the time and I remember looking up at her in complete awe. What an exciting time it must be at 25 and imagine 30 - WOAH. 30 is all about being married, having a house, probably a few children and totally understanding what life is, what it all means and why we're doing what we're doing...right?<br />
<br />
No. Nope. Nada. It never turned out quite like that!<br />
<br />
Mabey it's just me but being 30 in the 90s isn't quite what it means to be 30 now is it?<br />
<br />
I'm turning 28 this October which means the year after next (THE YEAR AFTER NEXT!!!) I will turn 30. Madness. 3 whole decades.<br />
<br />
It's so easy to think 'what have I done in the last 30 years' and I'm one of those that always whines to my friends 'I need to get my life sorted' but actually in reflection there isn't anything wrong with my life.<br />
<br />
I just need to realise that the life I thought I'd have now...when I was 6...is just not the pathway I was meant to have and that's okay.<br />
<br />
In light of turning 30, I - like many others have decided to pull together a list of 30 things I want to do or achieve before the stroke of midnight on the 5th October 2018.<br />
<br />
1. Have Afternoon Tea at The Ritz<br />
2. Go on a Hot Air Balloon Ride<br />
<strike>3. Visit Scotland </strike> - 2nd June 2017<br />
<strike>4. Move Out</strike> - <a href="http://www.notesbydonna.co.uk/2016/12/flying-nest.html" target="_blank">24th November 2016</a><br />
<strike>5. Go Fishing </strike> - 12th June 2017<br />
6. Sew something I can actually wear - from scratch!<br />
<strike>7. Build up my freelance into a Boutique Agency</strike> - 25th March 2017<br />
8. Travel to New York<br />
9. Climb and Camp on a Mountain<br />
10. Learn how to Paddleboard<br />
<strike>11. Start a New Business </strike> - 7th November 2016<br />
12. Go to Art Classes<br />
<strike>13. Travel to Bali </strike>- 21st January 2018<br />
<strike>14. Grow my Nails - once and for all! </strike> - 25th October 2017<br />
<strike>15. Get a Second Tattoo </strike> - 28th January 2018<br />
<strike>16. Go to a Bottomless Brunch</strike> - 21st August 2016<br />
17. Visit Iceland<br />
<strike>18. Go a month without using heat on my hair </strike>- January 2018<br />
<strike>19. Take up Yoga/Pilates</strike> - January 2018<br />
20. Do a floristry course<br />
<strike>21. Get a new piercing </strike> - <a href="http://www.notesbydonna.co.uk/2016/09/30before30-get-new-piercing.html" target="_blank">26th August 2016</a><br />
22. Learn a language - Spanish or Italian<br />
23. Publish an Article<br />
24. Sleep in a Treehouse or Under the Stars<br />
<strike>25. Go to Thailand </strike> - 1st February 2018<br />
26. Visit Ireland<br />
<strike>27. Carve a pumpkin</strike> - 26th October 2016<br />
28. Do a sports event for Charity<br />
29. Go to the Ballet at Christmas<br />
30. Grow my hair - long!<br />
<br />
And above all else - feel totally content with who I am and my journey, the choices I have made and the place my life is in.<br />
<br />
Bring it on 2018!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525720601301449621noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6871417346213002545.post-71967265717127303072016-05-18T08:13:00.000-07:002016-05-18T08:13:36.879-07:00#FreelanceLife - 5 Tips That'll Get You Ticking-Off Those To-Dos! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
The to-do list.<br />
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There's lots of reasons why we do them and lots of ways they've come about - even Benjamin Franklin banged on about 'to-do' lists back in the day and you know what I LOVE A LIST. There is something so satisfying about ticking off your jobs, your tasks - whatever it is.<br />
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And yes, I am the kind of person that'll write something I've already done on my list - just so I can tick it off. I feel like its a way of give yourself a pat on the back - recognition you've achieved something whether it's putting out the washing or completing a massive social media audit.<br />
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Since I've been freelancing I've lost count of the amount of times I've 'Googled' productivity, organisation, how to stay sane etc and I've come up with 5 tips that are making me more productive, more efficient and getting me more ticks!<br />
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<b>1. Shop, sharp, successful bursts!</b><br />
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I picked up this tip from the incredible business journal I have my head stuck in at the moment. From the people that created the Daily Greatness Journal comes the <a href="https://www.blogger.com/"><span id="goog_60208376"></span>Daily Greatness Business Planner<span id="goog_60208377"></span></a>. These guys recommend setting your daily actions into 90 minute chunks with a 10 minute break every 40 minutes. This method has worked wonders for me. Instead of getting distracted I discipline myself to 40 minutes of solid work then treat myself with 10 minutes of listening to a podcast, answering emails or calling a friend.<br />
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<b>2. Music to your headphones</b><br />
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I LOVE listening to music while I work. But it has to be something totally chilled and something that doesn't carry emotions or memories - no girl's night out songs here! I recommend the Work playlists from Spotify - this one '<a href="https://open.spotify.com/user/spotify_uk_/playlist/1iHelgbMaB7G1bjMbABPRe" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Music for Concentration</a>' is my current favourite. A mix of minimalism, electronic and modern classic. It really gets me in the zone.<br />
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<b>3. BREAKFAST</b><br />
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Brain food. I used to be terrible at eating breakfast - in fact I never used to eat breakfast. But now I've gotten into the habit of starting everyday with a glass of water and a slice of fresh lemon and either eggs and smoked salmon, a green smoothie backed with banana, spinach and pineapple or porridge with apples and sultana. Whatever I eat I make sure it's healthy and big enough to fill me up till lunch. Sugar snacking makes me lethargic and tired - easily losing concentration!<br />
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<b>4. Let's go Outside</b><br />
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As I write this I've just got back from a lovely walk on the beach with my pooch. I find a mid-afternoon walk really strengthens my productivity for the rest of the afternoon. It gives me something to work towards, it gives me time to step away and it gives me time to re-align my actions and how I will achieve them on a daily basis. The fresh air does wonders for the mind!<br />
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<b>5. Tidy desk, really does mean tidy mind</b><br />
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Some days I don't work from my office but on the days when I do I always start the day by tidying my workspace. Rejigging my motivational quotes, organising which notebook I'm using for the day and filing any paper I don't need for the day ahead. I'll always light a candle and open up the window for some fresh air too. I love my workspace - its calm. Working in a space you can walk away from is also hugely important!<br />
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What productivity tips do you have?<br />
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D</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525720601301449621noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6871417346213002545.post-68682639644879256272016-03-15T09:13:00.001-07:002016-03-15T09:13:27.830-07:00#FreelanceLife - A Day In The Life Of A Freelancer: The Reality<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
Freelance life. A new way of thinking, being, doing and living. Starting at 9am and finishing at 5.30pm. having an hour for lunch and 28 days holiday...freelance life is none of those.<br />
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The reality of freelance life is starting at 2am, 5am, 11am...starting your day when you wake up in the middle of the night and can't sleep because you have a deadline or because you suddenly have an idea that you simply MUST share on your project Slack feed.<br />
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Freelance life doesn't allow for holidays. Sure you might look at my Instagram feed and think 'Wow this girl is always on holiday' but let me tell you...there are no out of office email notices and wherever I stay Wi-Fi is essential!<br />
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Freelance life doesn't mean an extra long lunch break or a chance to veg out in front of the TV - sometimes just a simple cup of tea is a luxury! I can be at my desk at 8.30am and power on through until I next look at the clock, wondering why I'm suddenly super hungry...at 3.30pm!<br />
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Freelance life is all play. This is one that in recent months is absolutely not true. I've lost count of the amount of times I have had to cancel plans, reschedule dinners, drinks, nights out and girly get togethers.<br />
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Freelance life is not money, money, money. Sending invoices, chasing payments, making sure you're making enough money to meet your bills and save some cash is all part of freelance life. And that can be super stressful!<br />
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This is the reality of freelance life...one year in. But, for all this I would not change what I do. All of the above require strength, determination, organisation and well, a whole heap of dedication. To my friends and family who have been here since day one...I'm sorry, but thank you for the support in my beginnings. And to my amazing clients. I love the projects I'm involved in; from established businesses to start-ups, small organisations to large corporations.<br />
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I am now working on my productivity, my work life balance and of course, learning about how my way of life can be the best it can be. Over the coming weeks I will be sharing my own #freelancelife tips and tricks that I have been learning and I hope to encourage more of you, like me to take the scary leap of faith and join the world of working for yourself.<br />
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DAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525720601301449621noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6871417346213002545.post-72921254338114169512016-02-12T15:50:00.000-08:002016-02-12T15:50:47.524-08:00I Created a Book Club! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My bookshelf is crammed full of books. In fact, my bookshelf, my 'dvd shelf', my bedside table, my wardrobe...is crammed full of books.<br />
<br />My library history is full of nearly the same 'type' of book. And my Instagram feed is full of quotes and snaps of books that inspire me and bring goodness into my life. And that's exactly the kind of book we all need once in a while. No one can resist a good story that sucks us in and take us off into another world for an hour but the books I REALLY love are those that are 'good for the soul'...no I'm not just talking about the Self Help section in Waterstones.<br />
<br />I'm talking about the Marie Kondo's - yes I am learning how to Kon-Mari my shit. I'm talking about the Diane Von Furstenberg's. The Miss Moneypenny's. The Robin Sharma's and the Sophie Amoruso's. The books that encourage us to think outside the box, the books that teach us about the meaning's of life, the books that nurture us and encourage us to grow into unbelievably incredible people.<br />
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And it turned out after chattering to a few fellow book worms I'm not the only one obsessed with these thought-food books.<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />And so I decided to create a book club.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">A book club which is named after one of the most inspiring women to have every walked the planet -<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #141823;"><span style="line-height: 19.32px;"> Samurai warrior, Tomoe Gozen. </span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #141823;"><span style="line-height: 19.32px;"><br /></span></span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #141823;"><span style="line-height: 19.32px;">She fought alongside male samurais in the Genpei War. She was a strong woman who fought amongst strong men. She was an incredible archer and a swordsman. She was ready to face battle on foot or horseback AT ANY TIME. She was beautiful. Fearless. And respected. </span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #141823;"><span style="line-height: 19.32px;"><br /></span></span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #141823;"><span style="line-height: 19.32px;">This is what I hope to bring to the book club. Beauty, fearlessness and respect.</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #141823;"><span style="line-height: 19.32px;"><br /></span></span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #141823;"><span style="line-height: 19.32px;">It'll be more than just a book club - it'll be a place for us to share stories and be inspired whilst encouraging and supporting each other. It won't be a feminist group that slates men. It'll be a place to build relationships and a place for friendship. It will be a place for bookworms! Of course! </span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #141823;"><span style="line-height: 19.32px;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="color: #141823;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.32px;">The first few members are joining and I'd love it if you'd like to join too! Just follow this <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/249155135415558/">link</a></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; line-height: 19.32px;"> to request your place and please let me know of any amazing, inspiring books you have read recently! </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; line-height: 19.32px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">D x</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525720601301449621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6871417346213002545.post-80519292041035230332016-02-08T10:43:00.000-08:002016-02-08T10:43:16.675-08:00Going Meat Free<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I think I've always been a little naive when it comes to grub. I don't think I've ever really thought about what goes into my tummy pre 2012. Why 2012? Well in 2012 I went through some anxiety problems and my body reacted by developing IBS. This is something I have now learnt to manage through various different means which I am sure I will share with you all soon.<br />
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However, this year I made a pledge to myself to get healthy and stay healthy.<br />
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Not so much because I want to lose weight - yoyo diets ain't my thing! But more in a bid to take better care of me.
It got me thinking...what might help my health and help my IBS. Well a chat with a few friends persuaded me to try removing meat. Just for a little while.<br />
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And then this opened a pretty large can of worms.<br />
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Have any of you watched Cowspiracy?<br />
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Don't worry I'm not going off on a tangent here.<br />
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Cowspiracy, if you haven't seen it, is a documentary film which you can watch on Netflix about how the animal agriculture industry is the leading cause of Amazon deforestation as well as a HUGE factor on global warming. And it's all largely down to the amount of water this industry uses. One hamburger can use up over 600 gallons of water. I do not joke.<br />
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Amazing huh?<br />
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So on one hand I've got this 'healthy body, healthy mind' mantra going on and on the other hand I've just been slapped in the face with reality about the future status of our planet.<br />
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Pretty.<br />
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Heavy.<br />
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Stuff.<br />
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I might not be able to change the world with my small contribution to going meat free but I'm interested in exploring the pros and the cons of going Vegetarian for a while, both to help the environment and to help my self. So here it goes...<br />
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Do any of you have any tips on going meat free? Or do you have any thoughts on Cowspiracy?<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/14696993/?claim=8zfkv75ctu7">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525720601301449621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6871417346213002545.post-23425648110459457132015-12-15T09:57:00.000-08:002016-02-07T16:34:16.094-08:00Dream it. Do It.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This year I made a huge gamble and decided to jump the ship of full-time employment and join a whole new world, the freelance world. Over the last 10 months I have left behind a digital agency role, worked part time and now steadied myself into full-time freelance life with a 2016 planned that is full of new projects and opportunities and exciting growth plans. My dream of being my own boss is very much a reality and next year looks to take this to the next level.<br />
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I decided that I'd write this post to encourage anyone who is considering leaving full-time employment, to make their dreams a reality to go for it. It's been the best decision I have made and since I became in control of my own destiny I haven't looked back. Some may look from the outside in and say 'she got lucky' but let me tell you, that luck has <i>not</i> come out of nowhere. It's come from a lot of difficult firefighting with my social life, relationships, finances, health and mentality. But so far, it has been worth it.</div>
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I needed to learn to love my job. From the minute I left university and reality hit me between the eyeballs I knew that to get anything in this life, you, as an individual have to grab life at the goolies, create a plan, invest some time and some tears and MAKE IT HAPPEN. Let's be honest, playing the lottery every Saturday in the hope of winning the jackpot, ain't a plan. And it definitely isn't reality. Sure, if it happens then that's a bonus but your future and your destiny is not in the hands of the lotto. </div>
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You learn to read and write at school, you learn about life at university and then bam. You're education stops but you continue learning skills in the workplace. Sometimes you<i> feel</i> good at something but what about <i>knowing </i>your good at something? Take a leap of faith, be confident in what you can achieve and if it helps - write it all down. Take a step back and realise what is is that gets you out of bed in the morning and what areas you excel in. Whether it's makeup and hair, project management, writing, coding or medicine. If you love it and you find yourself dropping it into conversation then there is little doubt you'll love working in it. </div>
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Don't be fooled by feeling like you <i>HAVE </i>to follow a certain pathway. You never have to do that. You can change your career at 20, at 30 or even at 50. It doesn't matter. What matters is finding something you love that defies all else. If you work hard at it you'll make it happen. No dream or ambition is unrealistic. Just make sure you take baby steps, plan, create a support network and be sensible. Don't burn the candle at both ends and don't lose sight of the end goal. Where there's a will, there's a way. Cliche but bloomin' true hey? </div>
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Donna</div>
<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/14696993/?claim=8zfkv75ctu7">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525720601301449621noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6871417346213002545.post-70098542231028504822015-09-02T09:31:00.000-07:002015-09-02T09:31:27.687-07:00Learning about life...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
I recently faced a very sad time. A time that arrived more quickly than I thought and a time when I thought all the big, bad, yucky waves of sadness had washed away for a while. But apparently not.<br />
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I was worried when the sadness hit my soul that I might struggle to see through it all. See through all the emotion and the tears and the 'Oh but what if' and the 'I wish I'd got there sooner' kinda feelings. At 26...this last year I have attended 1 wedding and 6 funerals. Yep. 6 funerals. Funerals of friends, family members and lost loves. Old and young. At 26, I thought weddings and laughing at the Best Man speech were my thing. Not funerals and eulogies.<br />
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I think I've become a little regimented in the way that death affects me now. I feel like I'm used to the waves of grief as they float in and out and how they change in intensity. One minute it feels like the big, bad angry red wave knocks me off my feet and the next the light, little waves of reflection come and go without much trouble. It's such a funny old thing isn't it? Death? And in one of my moments of reflection I just wanted to share with you what all of this has meant to me, at 26 and 3/4s.<br />
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As heartbreaking as each and every persons loss of life is we all learn something from it. Even if we might not realise it to begin with. It shapes us into the people that we are. If we never know what it's like to lose someone then how do we know what its like to truly love someone? Having someone you love taken away from you is the worst pain and panic. A friend who you thought would be by your side forever or a grandparent you have never known your life without. It can completely knock us for six...<br />
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But you know what, sometimes we need to take a step back, and sometimes we need to ground ourselves again as to what is really important.<br />
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I don't think there is a 'right' way to deal with death. It differs from person to person and circumstance to circumstance. But what has been the biggest thing I have learnt in the last 12 months?<br />
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Well, for me it has been how we take our own life for granted so much. We spend all our days worrying, panicking, racing around...when suddenly it can all be over in the blink of an eye. And what is the one thing I realise about all those that I have lost? Not one of them is remembered for the shoes they wore, or the money they had or didn't have in the bank. Each and every one of them is remembered for the person they were. The memories and moments they gave those who are left. We come in with nothing, we cannot take anything with us. But we can make moments matter for those we may one day leave behind.<br />
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When all is said and done and our bank balance flashes up with that magic word...OVERDRAWN. And when that last pair of shoes we didn't buy last week have sold out, it doesn't matter.<br />
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But if our time was up tomorrow what matters is that we made the effort to spend the evening watching Corrie with Granny or standing at the sideline cheering on our brothers/boyfriends in the freezing cold. That is what matters. Like the saying goes, life is only as good as the memories we make.<br />
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DxAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15525720601301449621noreply@blogger.com4