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Mamma Fairy

Features

When All You Want Is A Small Business

A lot of articles are wrote with the intention of people turning their small business into a big one that’s going to make millions. But we know that it’s not everyone’s dream to be able to do that. Some people are just happy knowing they’re working for themselves and bringing in money that’s enough to live a good life from. Hopefully the salary will be a lot more than your average office job, but it’ll never get to the point where you feel like you’re extra rich and living the high life. For most mompreneurs and small business owners, this is never going to be achievable. It might be because you’ve come into business later on in your life and you have too many things to dedicate your time to, or it might be because the business idea you have is never going to be scalable enough to make it big. So, if you keep on reading, we’ll show you how you can make a nice profit from your small business, and be able to sustain it. 

Location Is Everything 

The location of your business really is everything. You need to make sure that you’re in a location that’s going to get enough attention. If you were to set up a business in a small town as a coffee shop, for example, it will be much harder to sustain your business than if you were in a bustling city. We know that rent is higher and it can be a pain to travel in, but you can have almost double the custom which will make a huge difference to your overall profit. If you’re an online based business you might benefit from getting a virtual business address that puts you in a prime location. If you visit physicaladdress.com you’ll find out just how you can do that. With a virtual office address you can reach more people. For example, if you’re operating in the US it’s going to look far better if you have a central New York or LA office, compared to a small town one. It just makes your business look more trustworthy. 

The right software

When you are thinking of starting your own business, the software you choose might be in the furthest reaches of your mind. But when it begins to get practical, actually implementing your business plan, it becomes a reality. Always pick the best kind of software your operations need. For example, if you were thinking of running a hair salon, you would require great Hair salon software to book appointments, log specific services for each client, and allocate employee responsibility. It makes perfect sense to go for software that has been designed with you in mind.

Keeping Customers Flowing

Customers need to keep on flowing. If you only ever anticipate being a small business you also run the risk of profit loss during times where your customer numbers dip. You don’t have that large flow of customers previously to fall back on. Which is why we think that constant marketing is key. There are so many marketing methods to invest your money into, you just need to be able to pick one that suits you. Billboard marketing is great for a small business, as is handing out posters and business cards. Run whatever campaign you chose to do alongside social media marketing and you’ll always have that trickle of attention. You may only need one social media platform to get your message across. Instagram can be great for product selling as it is a very visual app. So, if you plan on utilizing this avenue, you might want to look into Cheap options for Instagram followers, to help you grow organically within your space so you have potential customers taking notice.

Managing Small Business Finances 

Small business finances can be so hard to manage, even though there’s not always going to be the large cash flow a bigger business will have. It’s harder because if you get the balance wrong you could be spending more than you’re making. Using a service like those found at www.yourvirtualofficelondon.co.uk can help cut down on your budget and free up more time for you to focus on your work. Since they provide a virtual office address, post options, and call handling in one place, this is often cheaper than finding multiple companies to sort these things for you. In addition, working with an accountant to work out your budget and how much you have to spend will solve a lot of issues for you.

 

Note: This is a collaborative post

 

Features

Coronavirus Covid-19 Mythbuster

Everywhere you look on the news, on social media, the TV, message boards, emails, whatsapp messages, there is coverage of Cronoavirus.  However with huge volumes of information comes the issue of how much it true, which sources can you rely on, where do you go to get solid advice. Its a minefield.   This article is no substitute for medical advice, it is imperative to consult your GP if in doubt or if you have any queries.  Tropical Medical Bureau have kindly given me permission to reproduce their very helpful Mythbuster.

Coronavirus Covid-19 Mythbuster

We have been bombarded with information over the past weeks about the new coronavirus Covid-19, which was first recognised in December 2019 in China and now has been reported in over 60 countries throughout the world – and likely to infect many more in the days ahead.

Many of the more sensible commentators have outlined that the risk of contracting Covid-19 is small and, in most cases, the disease it is not life-threatening. However, social media is overflowing with advice regarding Covid-19, and the facts which we should be trusting are often diluted by the mass of misinformation and doing the rounds.

Should you lock yourself away from humanity until the virus is controlled or can you, with sensible precautions, get on with your life? Are these the ‘final days’ and is humanity doomed? The travel industry has taken a massive knock and one main concern affecting this is, to misquote Shakespeare, “To Travel or Not to Travel? That is the question.”

So, let’s try to dispel some of the more common myths which are circulating and see can we get a bit of perspective to the situation…

washing hands

Pic Credit: Pixabay

1. Myth

Getting Covid-19 is a death sentence.

Current information shows that only very few of those who contract this disease will die. This is mainly in the more vulnerable people – those who have an underlying health condition or are in older age. For the majority of those infected, the virus will result in typical flu symptoms and should be fine with treatment.

2. Myth

Covid-19 is more contagious than the flu or Measles.

The latest information shows that it is more contagious than flu, but a lot less than Measles. Remember, annually the flu infects about 1 billion people with over ½ million deaths worldwide.

3. Myth

Going to work or walking down the street or into shops and supermarkets is just too high a risk so I have to stay at home.

The virus is usually spread through coughs and sneezes – like many other respiratory diseases – but, in most cases, this is only from very close contact with the infected individual.

4. Myth

If one person on a plane or in a train has the disease everybody will be infected.

The risk is extremely high for those within 1m of an infected person who is coughing or sneezing openly. However, if an individual uses tissues or coughs/sneezes into the elbow region, the risk will be considerably lowered.

5. Myth

Hand gels are the best means of protecting myself.

While good quality hand-gels are helpful, careful washing of your hands, avoiding touching your face and staying away from those with obvious symptoms (flu like illness, coughing, runny eyes, fever etc) is the best way to avoid contracting the illness.

Please Note: hand gels are not effective if your hands are visibly soiled or very dirty.

6. Myth

Face masks will protect me from contracting Covid-19.

Unless you are using a very specialised face mask, the air surrounding you will leak in around the edges of the mask and it is just as though you were not using the mask at all. Masks are helpful to catch some of the virus particles from those who already have the disease and are coughing but they need to be changed regularly and very carefully, otherwise they are a risk factor. If you are healthy, you only need to wear a mask if you are taking care of a person with suspected Covid-19 infection.

surgical mask

Pic Credit: Pixabay

7. Myth

If I buy food in the supermarket and then boil or cook it for our meals that should kill any virus that might be lurking.

This is true but, the problem may be from you handling the food before it is heated. Take care and wash your own hands regularly after touching anything which could have been contaminated. This hand washing advice is hugely recommended after using public transport or after being on an escalator.

8. Myth

There is a homeopathy vaccine available.

Currently, there is absolutely no vaccine available against coronavirus Covid-19 at this time and there is not likely to be one available for some time.

9. Myth

All vaccines are useless against Covid-19.

Technically at this time that is perfectly correct. However, we do know that most of the serious cases with this respiratory viral disease are among those with an underlying health issue. For example, in many of the more serious cases of flu it may not be the virus itself which kills the individual but, rather an associated or secondary bacterial infection. The illness associated with Covid-19 may leave that individual more at risk of other infectious diseases. On that basis it is wise for those at a particular risk to ensure they are up to date with the yearly flu vaccine but also to consider having vaccination cover against Pneumococcal disease which is a serious bacterial infection affecting the respiratory system.

10. Myth

International travel is a huge risk and should always be avoided.

At this time, the risk of contracting the disease from undertaking flights or visiting most countries of the world is known to be minimal. It is wise to avoid regions where there is a very significant amount of cases being reported but, for most destinations, the risk remains very small.

11. Myth

Covid-19 is the most deadly disease to hit mankind.

While Covid-19 is spreading quickly in some regions of the world and has a mortality rate of 2-3%, it is still not by any means as deadly as other diseases. For example, SARS killed 10% of those who became infected and MERS is responsible for between 30% to 40% of deaths among those who get the disease.

blood pressure monitor

Pic Credit: Pixabay

12. Myth

The new coronavirus can be transmitted through goods manufactured in China or any country reporting Covid-19 cases.

Even though Covid-19 can last on surfaces from a few hours up to several days (depending on the type of surface), it is highly unlikely that the virus will persist on a surface after being moved, travelled, and exposed to different conditions and temperatures. If you think a surface may be contaminated use a disinfectant to clean it. After touching it, clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water.

13. Myth
Coronavirus Covid-19 can be transmitted through mosquito bites.

Coronavirus Covid-19 cannot be transmitted through mosquito bites. To date there has been no information nor evidence to suggest that it could be transmitted by mosquitoes. Covid-19 is a respiratory virus which spreads primarily through droplets generated when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or through droplets of saliva or discharge from the nose.

14. Myth

Eating garlic can help prevent infection of the new coronavirus.

Garlic is a healthy food that may have some antimicrobial properties. However, there is no evidence from the current outbreak to suggest that eating garlic has protected people from coronavirus Covid-19.

15. Myth

Cocaine can protect against a coronavirus.

Cocaine cannot protect against any coronavirus or other infective diseases. It is an addictive, dangerous drug that should not be used under any circumstances.

 

 

Note: Thanks to www.tmb.ie for the above. Always consult medical professionals if in doubt and follow the guide issue by the HSE.
Features

Tips For Shipping Your Car When Moving House

Moving can be a stressful period, and there are parts of it that are going to be more stressful than others. One of the things you might need to think about when it comes to moving is shipping your car. There are a few things to consider before going ahead with any company, so here are some tips for shipping your car when moving house.

blue bmw car

Pic Credit: Pexels

Find The Right Company

Firstly, anyone who handles an expensive commodity like a car should be someone you completely trust to get your car from A to B safely. If you have any doubts, then you have certainly not found the right company that will help you move your car. There are lots of companies out there, and it’s all about finding the one which has the best reputation and has a service that provides everything you need and at the right price. Companies like https://www.jayde.com.au/ offer services to transport cars and using a logistics company that is used to dealing with the navigation and movement of large items is going to be a good one to go for. Do your research, know what your budget is and how much you’d like to spend in getting it shipped and make sure they’re a legitimate company that has one of the best reputations in their industry.

Clean The Outside And Inside Of The Car

Before you go shipping your car, the next thing you want to focus on is cleaning your car. Your car might actually be due a clean, so it’s a nice way of starting off the time in your new property, with some freshly cleaned wheels. It also helps to clean in your car just so there’s nothing in there that could cause any breakages to windows or any bottles that might have liquid in them and spill out. Your car can often be a treasure trove, so don’t trust yourself completely if you feel like your car is clean. Check every single possible place before you go sending it off with the shipping company.

Disable The Car’s Alarms

The car’s alarms can make for a very painful noise to the shipping company when they’re trying to move the car from pillar to post. For the sake of the move, turn off or disable your car’s alarms for the duration of the move. You don’t want to put that distress or annoyance on the people who are moving your car and those around them. It’s fairly easy to disable your car alarms, but it might vary depending on the make and model of your car. A search in your car manual may provide the solution.

Take Photos For Evidence

Taking photos as evidence for damage is essential. As much as they can be a reputable and trustworthy business, it’s always good to cover your own back in the likelihood that the company would ever get it wrong or have someone unfortunate on duty who did damage to your car.

While the above is particular to cars there are many things you can arrange to have couriered in advance making the move a lot less stressful, for example I have seen companies where for example you can  send from Singapore to UK its such a handy service and well worth considering if making a long distance move.

Use these tips to help make this process as painless as possible.

 

Note: This is a collaborative post
Fairy Travels

I Had a Car Accident: What do I do Next? A Handy Checklist

I Had Car Accident: What do I do Next? A Handy Checklist

Staying Calm After a Car Accident | Car Accident Tips | An Post InsuranceWhether it’s a nudge in a car park or a more serious crash on the road, many of us will hear the squeal of brakes and the crunch of a bumper at some point in our lives.  Thankfully, most car accidents involve no more than some scuffed metal and a bruised ego or two, but they do make for a stressful experience. Being prepared can help you avoid panic and get the best result from a difficult situation.

Based on An Post Insurance’s many years of experience working with Irish motorists, they’ve put together a handy checklist to keep in mind should the worst happen when you’re behind the wheel.

First things first

If somebody is injured, call the emergency services straight away. If not, you’ll still need to contact An Garda Síochána, as they need to be informed as soon as possible after an accident, and definitely within 24 hours if the crash injures a person or animal or if your car is stolen or damaged. Apart from the legal requirement to contact the Gardai, they’ve also seen plenty of accidents before, and will be able to help guide you through the process.Moreover, if anyone got severely injured due to someone else’s fault, you should immediately consult a personal injury lawyer and see if you are eligible for compensation. There are a multitude of options of Lawyers and legal firms available online that cover wide geographic areas, you may even have heard of some prominent ones already like War For Cincy. Regardless of who you choose, do spend time if you can on researching the firm, you will want to find someone experienced in car crash accident law to be able to specially build a case for you. The more specific knowledge they have the better chance you have of being fully compensated for damages and suffering you have experienced.  To get a better understanding of how a lawyer can help you in such cases, click for more information here. 

Keep your cool

It’s easy to get flustered and perhaps even angry in the event of an accident, but it’s important that you don’t get into a conversation about blame and don’t accept responsibility – you don’t want to make an off-the-cuff statement you might regret later.  Try to stay calm and polite – even if it means counting to ten several times over!

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Fairy Travels

A couple of hours in London with kids

For the last two years as part of our Lapland adventure we had to transit via Gatwick airport in London and due to the exceptionally early flight we end up staying in an airport hotel the night before. However following our incredible 2019 Lapland adventure we have decided we want to go back again in 2020. However this time we would like to spend a couple of hours in London as part of our 2020 trip.

london ferris wheel

Pic Credit: Pixabay

Ever since I was a kid London holds a sense of magic for me. We had been before kids, actually to celebrate my 21st many moons ago, but haven’t been with them so hopefully we will change that in 2020. Given the vastness of the city and so much to do. I decided to reach out to my fellow bloggers for some tips and highlights to make our limited hours as productive as possible.  However I must say at the very top of my list is a visit to The Apollo Theatre London I know my kids would go wild to see Horrible Histories there. I think most of us have heard of The Apollo so would love so much to see a show there.

So what do my fellow parenting bloggers recommend for a few short hours in London?

The boys are ages 7 and almost 5 so these recommendations do reflect the ages of the kids so do bear that in mind!

  • First up Typicalmummy.co.uk suggests the Harry Potter studios and I must admit while I know my oldest will really love this, I would too.  Ella refers to it as one of the best family days out they have had which is quite the review.
  • Next The Incidental Parent gives us a great insight in Kidzania. This is actually already on my pairs radar having see it on a YouTube video some time ago. I can really see the appeal of this for kids as its set up like real life simulated play areas
  • Laura from Threelittlezees.co.uk gives us a whistle stop tour of a day out in the London Bridge area, one of their highlights was the Shrek Adventure which looks very cool.
  • If off the beaten track is your preference then deepinmummymatters.com has you covered with her top picks for families that aren’t the typical London attractions. London being the tourist hotspot that it is this could be a fantastic list if you want a more chilled look at London.

Whatever you decide to do on a London trip one this for sure is try to catch on show. There are many family friendly shows available on best-tickets.co.uk.

If you do have any further tips for London in December drop them in the comments below.

 

Note: This is a collaborative post
Home & Interiors, Mamma Musings

Top Tips for renovating your bathroom

You will have seen lots of our renovation ramblings on the blog over the last couple of years. Have finally (almost) come out the far side I though I share so tips on what worked and what didn’t! We ended up doing 2 bathroom projects. A total renovation and a new one. It’s funny a lot of people I have spoken too have said that one of the most neglected room in their homes was the bathroom which is ironic considering its such a frequently used room!

So here are my top ten tips for renovating your bathroom.  Hopefully this will be useful and do leave comments below if you have any others:

  1. Plan, plan, plan – by this I mean discuss your plans with the relevant trades well in advance and especially before you start buying anything. For example you may want to move a radiator or bath but this may not be possible logistically so talk to the plumber, the electrician etc well before you commence. Also worth considering here is the relevant regulations affecting your refit. Your plumber should be well versed on these and be able to assist and provide advice and guidance. One of the things I love to do is reseach, anybody that knows me knows how much research I like do to when I take on any project.  See fro examples resources like bath remodel Houston can really help.
  2. Features – bathroom tend to be one of the smallest rooms in the house so use what you have a feature. For example you could go for electric radiators which are not only functional but can serve a nice and also very useful feature.
  3.  Storage – if like me you have a strange habit of accumulating all sorts of lotions and potions consider your storage needs up front! From mirrors with shelves to proper shaving cabinets that have all the storage nooks and crannies you need!
  4. Lighting – consider your lighting needs well before you start any tiling and don’t go over board! (im looking at you Dada Fairy!!)
  5. Showers head/ brassware – these parts particularly the shower head maybe used multiple times a day so buy the best you can afford. Have a look at quality places like Insignia Shower Outlet  Somebody once told me when renovating the bathroom buying the best your budget can stretch to is critical.  These rooms get a huge amount of use so do look for quality. Its so worth it.
  6. Layout – really consider the flow of the room at the outset particularly given the space may be small.
  7. Tiling – Shop around there can be huge variances in prices and quality so take time to visit plenty showrooms and even take them home to get a sense of how they will look in your own space.
  8. Colours – As tempting as it is to go for the latest fad or popular colour, id suggest keep the sanitary ware neutral and jazz it up with the coloured accessories as they can be changed far more easily and cheaply. At the moment im loving Moroccan styled bathrooms. Its the beautiful use of different textures that I have fallen for. Timeless and elegant.

 

Note: This is a collaborative post
Features

How Adopting The Latest Technology Can Improve Your Business

Whether you like technology or loathe it, there is no escape from it in the modern world. For businesses, technology has provided many significant benefits. Organisations have been able to improve their efficiency, productivity has grown, and communication has been enhanced. However, some companies may be reluctant to embrace these advances in technology, preferring to stick with familiar methods of running their business. The reasons for reluctance to adopt new technology vary between companies, but a fear of the unknown, or being unsure of the value that it will add can be a major part of the reason. Ensuring that your employees have thorough training on how to use the new systems that you introduce will make the integration seamless. If staff feel that they are well-informed and can see the advantages offered by new systems, they are more likely to adopt and engage with them positively.

For some businesses, failing to keep up with the ever-changing technology available can put them at a disadvantage. Take for example digital marketing, it is imperative you keep to the forefront n this or risk falling behind your competitors, https://www.whitehat-seo.co.uk/hubspot-onboarding  is an example of one such firm who can help in this regard.  It is clear that if your competitors are seizing the opportunity to capitalise on technology, your business may struggle to keep up. To stay competitive in your industry, you will need to make the most of all the tools at your disposal, which includes technology.

From software applications to social media, there is a vast array of ways that businesses can implement technology and use it to their advantage. Here are just some of the many tools that you can use to enhance your business operation:

Collaborative Working

computer moniter

Pic Credit: Pixabay

and Cloud Technology

The cloud may not be entirely new, but it has evolved in recent times and emerged as an even more useful tool for businesses. Cloud storage has reduced the need for businesses to house and maintain large servers onsite to handle their data, which is a significant advantage for many companies.

The cloud also offers the opportunity for employees to work collaboratively in ways that were never possible in the past. Employees can create documents that are visible to colleagues and work collaboratively on them in real-time, whether they are in the same office, or on opposite sides of the world.

Enhanced Communication

Meaningful communication is at the centre of all successful businesses, and now the technology exists to enhance communication on every level. On a visual level, data can be presented in a whole new way thanks to the introduction of systems such as Microsoft Power BI; this enables teams to extract meaningful data from their figures and quickly identify trends. Power BI is a particularly useful tool for grabbing attention and presenting information in an engaging way.

The increased use of customer relationship management software (CRM) has also brought significant benefits. CRM enables employees to have all the customer information that they need at their fingertips to provide the very best customer service possible. CRM software also enhances productivity, by ensuring everyone is up to date with all the information that they need whether they are dealing with a customer complaint, or collaborating on a project.

Note: This is a collaborative post
Mamma Musings

Six Top Goals To Aim For In Life

Every single person in the world has a goal. Whether it’s a big goal or a small one, a goal is a goal. Something to aim for, to feel inspired by, and to spend life trying to achieve is what we need to find our purpose. You should always feel as if your goals matter, and whether you are writing your goals on a bucket list or you are merely noting them down for later in life, you should consider how your goals are going to pan out.

The key is knowing what your personal goals are. Your dreams and ideas are going to be so different from the dreams of others, and you need to be able to own those dreams on for example a dream board and feel like you will be able to achieve something amazing because of them. If you want to be able to move forward in life, keeping an open mind is vital. So, with that in mind, we’ve put together a list of six of the top goals that you could have in life.

croatia

Pic Credit: Pexels

Mo’ Money, Fewer Problems

Most people put wealth as a goal, and why not? For some, the addition of a boosted income is one that allows them to live marginally more comfortably than they do right now. You may not want to be a multi-millionaire, but to have enough cash to buy that luxury house for sale or a new car can really make a difference. For some people, more money equals fewer problems because they can finally make ends meet. If money is your goal, you need a plan to build your wealth.

An Exciting New Career

Have you considered that a goal in your life should be to further your career? If you are currently working a job that you hate, you have the power to change that. Not only is a new career going to help you to unlock your wealth goals, but it can help you to move freely around the world and meet new people.

Plenty Of Love

Lastly, your life goals should be topped off with as much love as possible. Whether through family, friendships, or a lifelong partner, having strong, supportive relationships brings joy and fulfilment. For couples in committed relationships, love often means building a future together, which can involve important decisions like where to live and grow as a family. In some cases, this journey involves overcoming legal hurdles to stay in the same country. Well, Marriage Based Green Cards provide a solution, allowing couples to live together legally while pursuing their dreams without immigration barriers in the way.

The Best Education

Some so many people go back to school in later life, and if this is a goal that means something to you, then grab it with two hands. An education is a key to so many new things, and you deserve the very best. Don’t let things stand in your way.

A New House

Property ownership – at home or abroad – is a life goal for most people. The chance to stop spending dead money on rent and move into a house that they’ve worked for is a goal that should be put at the top of the list!

The Chance To Explore

Travel, adventures, exploration. How can there be a vast world out there and no desire to see it? There is so much to see and do – make a second list of all the countries and cities that appeal to you the most!

 

 

Note: This is a collaborative post
Mamma Musings

7 Productivity Tips for Mothers Working from Home

To work or not to work? This question is not a question anymore for most of the young mothers worldwide. An unstable economic situation and the modern set of values push women with young children to work almost as much as family men do. 

Data provided by the Office for National Statistics in Britain showed that the number of working mothers has been growing steadily. Over the last 20 years it has reached 71,1% in 2019. In the U.S., the majority of children grow up in families where both parents are employed, either full-time or part-time.

The answer to maintaining a satisfactory work-life balance for a stay-at-home mother can be a “home office”. Many women use it to the full extent. But how can you keep your efficiency on a maximum level, when there are so many distractions around?  

As a mom, you also can worry about writing process of your children so you can appeal to ib extended essay writing service and hire a writer that can help your children write a paper for them.

We’ll tell you! Read on to find helpful productivity tips for the most popular remote occupations.

mother kids ipad

Pic Credit: Unsplash

1. Find the Right Job 

There are three different types of jobs that you may do from home: full-time, part-time and freelance. 

If you have a toddler or a newborn, it’s better to choose freelance. Even if you have outside help, your child under 3 years old will hardly understand that mama needs to work. Children at that age are constantly craving your attention. 

However, if your child is of kindergarten age or you have a babysitter and a separate nursery, you may try to find a job with fixed hours.

2. Use the Education and Skills You Already Have

You heard a lot of inspiring stories about women who managed to change their occupation or start a business during their maternity leave, right? Be careful: such things happen, but not often. If you have a good education and reliable experience, the best thing you can do is to try and adapt this experience to work-at-home mode. 

Let’s take academic writers as an example. These are highly educated women with MA’s and PhDs who can easily use their skills and deep knowledge to work remotely on a flexible schedule. You can most probably find them here – https://essaypro.com/term-paper.html. You can get a high-class help with your term paper from them, either for yourself or your child. 

3. Choose the Most Popular Remote Professions 

We’ve already mentioned academic writing as a good remote profession. There are several other jobs that are more adaptable to remote job mode than others. The following ones are just the top of the iceberg.

  • Freelance journalist/editor;
  • Translator;
  • Tutor;
  • SMM/Content Manager; 
  • Sales Manager;
  • Programmer/Developer;
  • Data scientist;
  • Recruiter;
  • Project manager. 

    calculator

    Pic Credit: Pixabay

This list can go on, as more and more companies allow their employees to work from a home office. 

What does it have to do with productivity? It’s simple: the better the job you have, the more you get paid for it. Then, your motivation gets higher – and motivation is key to being efficient!

4. Plan Your Schedule Carefully  

This is the most obvious piece of advice, right? But planning your schedule doesn’t mean writing down everything that you WANT to do. It’s about planning only what you HAVE TO do. 

  • Reserve time for things like visits to the doctor and to children’s educational activities, then insert the working hours. If you have fixed hours, do vise versa. 
  • Find time for relaxation and recreational activities. Include them in your schedule. 
  • All these plans should be have to be written down. You can use a calendar, an online planner like Trello or a simple paper daily planner. 

5. Delegate 

Be realistic: doing everything on your own is a dream that is unlikely to come true. Don’t try to be a superwoman and delegate.

  • Start with setting your priorities. If you value your time with the child most of all but don’t like cooking too much, use pre-made food or find someone to help you in the kitchen. If you love cooking, but hate cleaning, find a cleaner, and so on. 
  • As for finding the money for all the personnel – find a balance. Hire as much help as you can afford – and work as many hours as you really have. 
  • There’s also an option to find volunteer help – a father can do more housework than usual sometimes, and grandparents can take their grandchildren for a walk, for example.
  • Kindergarten is also a great option for older children.

Don’t worry, everything will be fine. Whereas if you try to be a genius of multitasking, it surely won’t. Multitasking is bad for your brain, remember that. 

6. Use Your Natural Productivity Peaks 

laptop

Pic Credit: Pixabay

We all have our productivity peaks during the 24-hour cycle. Ignoring this fact is a bad idea.  Though there’s a lot of advice on starting your day early to reach maximum efficiency, it’s not suitable for everyone. Don’t try to break your natural cycles for fashion. It can result in burnout and health problems.  And if you have no choice but to adapt to your baby’s sleeping schedule, consider postponing work for better times or hiring a sitter. 

7. Forget About Perfectionism 

Last, but not least. And it doesn’t mean that you can do your job with less precision or forget to feed the baby. Just don’t worry too much about not being on schedule to wash the floor or dust the shelves. Set the priorities and do some things really well. All that’s less important can be done less than perfect.

To Sum Up 

Productivity for a mother working at home starts from setting the priorities and making the right choices. Careful planning is a job half done. Remember to be realistic and not try to carry the world upon your shoulders or reinvent yourself during maternity leave. Take only as much work as you can handle.

 

Note: This is a collaborative post
Mamma Musings

To Thine Own Self: Dressing To Be Who YOU Want To Be

Learning to be comfortable in your own skin is a lengthy practice. We can incorporate numerous components into our lives like being healthy and ensuring that we are as happy as we can be, but when we look at ourselves in the mirror, sometimes we don’t like the person staring back at us. We’ve all got issues, especially with our own looks, but we’ve got to remember that we have control over our style and our image. Sometimes we can feel that we have to dress in a certain way, but the key is really about dressing to be the person that you want to be. So what are the ways to do this?

Statement Pieces

It’s something to consider that as you evolve your style that one beautiful statement piece can completely elevate your dress sense. It doesn’t have to be anything complex; it can be a great pair of sneakers or sunglasses to completely change a basic and underwhelming outfit into something that distinguishes you from everybody else. When you are choosing statement pieces, think about items that can change with your style. It’s so easy to go for the trendy items, but when you start to invest in statement pieces that are inherently you, this can dress up any bog-standard outfit.

Be Confident

When you are expanding or downsizing your wardrobe, you must remember that it’s supposed to be a reflection of who you are. It can make you or break you. And as easy as it is to follow the trends and what the fashionistas say you’ve got to think about what a specific outfit says to you. Becoming more like you can be about staying away from the norms. You don’t have to follow the herd, and when you are trying to be courageous with your outfits, it’s about taking that leap. Try something; you might like it!

Be Simple

Simplicity is vital. When fashion dictates that everybody should be wearing leather or suede not only is it expensive to follow these trends, but it’s exhausting! You’ve got to dress for the person that you want to be and live the life that you want. This means that we shouldn’t overthink it but also get into the habit of decluttering. Decluttering your wardrobe is the perfect way of decluttering your life. Going back to basics with neutral coloured clothing and a handful of shoes gives you a far better foundation to build upon.

Plain short-sleeve T-shirts, simple slip-on shoes, classic denim jeans, and solid pieces that can work with multiple outfits are the way forward. A statement piece, such as a denim jacket, a scarf, or sunglasses, can instantly make a simple outfit more stylish.

Get Inspired

Who inspires you? Or maybe there isn’t anybody out there that you take inspiration from. Sometimes we could do with going back to the drawing board to get a few ideas. When you are looking for a way to become unique sometimes, you’ve got to go to the various fashion accounts on Pinterest just to give you a starting point. Getting inspired by other people can give you a new direction to go in, or you may just want to emulate that style but when you are dressing to be who you want to be you’ve got to make sure that you are being true to yourself.

 

Note: This is a collaborative post