We all experience some form of struggle or hardship in life. Parents, however, generally have to deal with more as they strive to provide for the emotional, financial, and spiritual needs of the family. 

When it comes to coping techniques, we all use different ones. For me, it’s music. Sometimes, I still take out my bandurria and let my emotions flow through the strings as I play and sing to my favorite songs.

But there’s another activity that can offer tremendous help for overworked parents who are craving a safe space to express their thoughts and emotions without worrying what others will think: journaling!

Why does writing help us?

You probably already know this, but our thoughts and feelings can have a strong impact on our immune system. 

A depressed state, for example, will make use more susceptible to illness and disease. On the other hand, positive emotions such as love, gratitude, and compassion are known to have healing and illness-preventive effects on the body. 

Because it’s part of our responsibility as parents to ensure we have a happy and healthy household, it’s up to us to manage the daily stresses of parenting and adulthood. This is where journaling can be a blessing!

For years, therapists have used journals, questionnaires, and other writing forms to help people manage their emotions and learn from negative experiences. 

So how can we reap the same benefits with a simple pen and paper (or word processor)?

How to Journal and Heal

1. Gain Clarity

In such situations, journaling can be a powerful way for us to take a step back from the situation and be able to see things more clearly. When we’re right in the middle of a problem or situation, we tend to react more emotionally. 

But more often than not, we find good solutions when we are thinking objectively. So pull out a notebook, write about your situation and notice yourself gain better insights and solutions.

It’s normal for us to experience self-doubt and anxiety about our current life situation. Maybe there are just too many things going on in a day, or we’re feeling overwhelmed by everything happening.

2. Release Negative Feelings and Thoughts

“Our words have power,” is a saying you may have come across several times in the past. Whenever you find yourself feeling down or stuck in a negative thought cycle, it’s important to express it.

One option you have as a stress valve is to open up to someone you trust (or even a complete stranger) about what’s going on in your heart and mind.

What if everyone’s busy? Or what if you don’t want to be judged too harshly? Consider writing everything down instead. 

As we’ve shared above, professional therapists understand the power of writing and encourage their patients to “speak their truth” in a safe environment. That notebook of yours, or your word processor, can be the safe environment you need right now.

3. For Reflecting on Lessons

Life is the ultimate teacher. We make mistakes and stumble. We may have more experience (and gray hair) than children, but that doesn’t mean we stop learning and growing.

In fact, adulthood is a period when we get taught the most important lessons and find out what truly matters. And for parents, many of these lessons are difficult to take in, especially when we feel continually pulled in different directions.

It can be a few minutes a day, or an hour a week. Even if you don’t have much time to journal, a few minutes a day can already do wonders for your mental and emotional well-being.

Get Into The Habit of Writing

The benefits of writing have been well-documented for decades, and it works for parents, teenagers, and practically anyone who would like to express their thoughts and feelings in a safe place.

While it’s often better to write the old-fashioned way with a pen and paper, you can also try out opening a blank digital document just to get into the habit of expressing yourself. So try it out, and notice how your mood shifts!

Human beings are designed for greater things—and most people believe that with all their hearts. That is why many live their daily lives intending to achieve their personal goals. 

Some people get to their goals faster than others and if you are among those who are growing impatient with their progress, our tips below might just help you: 

1. Focus more on doing the first step. 

Dream big and set life goals as much as your heart desires, even when they seem impossible. But no matter how big or small your goals are, you can never reach them without putting your plans into action. Focus your energy on the first step toward that goal and once you’re on your way, you’ll be unstoppable. 

2. Aim for the above-expectation results. 

If you want to get to your goals fast, always go above and beyond what is expected of you every day. The harder you work, the closer you can get to your goal so always give your best at everything that you do. 

3. Setbacks are opportunities for improvement. 

Everyone can reach their goals in no time if only things always went our way. Unfortunately, life will take you on detours and you may think of them as a waste of time, but detours may hold valuable lessons you’ll need for your journey. Use the chance to unlock new learnings and skills. 

4. Changes are necessary. 

Change can be scary, but it is the only constant thing in this world. The sooner you accept that change is needed for you to achieve your goal, the sooner you can start focusing your energy on putting your plans into action instead. 

5. Manifesting works. 

The last thing you need when working towards your goals is self-doubt. Thinking positive isn’t a fad—it will really change how you perceive things and keep you motivated and inspired to carry on. Keep manifesting your goals. 

Everyone yearns for that fulfilling feeling when you’ve finally achieved what you’ve been working hard for, and that’s why everyone wants to get to their goal as soon as possible. These mindset tips will help you get there sooner but until then, don’t forget to enjoy the ride too because after all, chasing goals is what makes life worthwhile. 

No problem is the same for two people; each one deals with his own struggles and has his ways of overcoming them too. There are days, however, when the trials simply feel too heavy to be carried alone. 

This is when you know you need an extra boost to get through it. We’re hoping that these quotes will uplift your spirits and inspire you to keep battling through adversities. 

“A problem is a chance for you to do your best.” – Duke Ellington

A simple shift in perspective might just be what you need to spark hope inside you to fight the tough days. Think of trials as opportunities to grow and become stronger. 

“The gem cannot be polished without friction, nor man perfected without trials.” – Chinese Proverb

Trials are learning opportunities and each time you overcome one, you become a better version of yourself. Trust that problems exist to bring out your best potential so you can achieve what’s truly meant for you. 

“Prosperity is a great teacher; adversity is greater. Possession pampers the mind; privation trains and strengthens it.” – William Hazlitt

Success truly is a priceless feeling but what people don’t realize is that adversity is also just as essential in life. It is what balances life and hones people to become resilient. 

“Tough times never last, but tough people do. “- Robert Schuller

Remember that difficult days are temporary. The lessons you take away from the experience and how strong you have become, however, are here to stay. Each obstacle you overcome makes it easier for you to battle the upcoming trials. 

“Things turn out the best for the people who make the best of the way things turn out.” – John Wooden

Sometimes, all it takes to spark change in your life is to change how you perceive things. Thinking positive and doing your best regardless of the outcome guarantee that you are living your best life. 

Everyone needs a little boost in spirits sometimes, there’s no shame in that. The next time you find yourself facing adversities, just go back to one of our quotes above to help you get through it like the brave warrior that you are. 

Motherhood is one of, if not the most fulfilling role of a woman. While becoming a mother has made most women feel complete and that they have found their purpose in life, it is not uncommon for moms to also feel like they lost a part of themselves at the same time.

Identity crisis happens to almost all moms, and it is usually because: 

1. Moms’ lives now revolve around their kids. 

Being a mother is a full-time job; there isn’t a time of the day when your kids don’t need you. Because moms barely think of themselves now, they feel disconnected from themselves own selves. 

2. Moms often forget to care about how they look. 

Most moms would agree that they would rather see their kids well-dressed, groomed, and healthy than themselves. Moms put in less effort to dress up hence, they don’t feel attractive on the inside like they used to anymore. 

3. Moms need to slow down. 

Ambitious women who need to live at a slower pace to cater to the needs of their growing kids find it hard to adapt to a life that isn’t as “productive” as society dictates things to be. This makes moms feel insecure and unsure of themselves. 

4. Moms have given up their careers. 

Giving up on a career that has once fulfilled you and given you pride is not easy to deal with. It is not only their career that stay-at-home moms have lost but also the passion that was once satisfied in their jobs.

5. Moms lost the freedom they once had. 

Many moms would agree to feel more like a robot completing commands rather than a human who has a will of her own. The limited freedom of a mom can make her feel like a stranger to her own self. 

Moms who don’t feel like their old selves should not feel bad about it at all. Because you really aren’t your old self anymore —you are now stronger, bolder, and even more beautiful after bringing and caring for a precious life on earth. Don’t be ashamed to ask for time away from the kids to do what you love and rest whenever you need to. Taking care of yourself is the only way you can take care of your loved ones. 

Good rapport with your patient doesn’t only allow for a smoother transaction between you two but also enables you to provide him/her with better medical care. When your patient feels comfortable communicating how he/she feels with you, you can find out more about his/her conditions and symptoms so you can tailor the level of care you provide them with. 

These tips will help you become a better communicator to your patient: 

1. Be conscious of your body language. 

Keep your arms open to suggest that you are not holding anything back and, when possible, get down to the eye level of your patient—do not look down on him/her as it might come across as intimidating. 

2. Ask questions concisely and clearly. 

Make sure your questions are short and easy to understand. If you need to ask multiple questions, ask them one at a time to give your patient enough time to think things through. 

3. Always maintain a level of respect for your patients. 

Your patient will make many requests to help him/her feel comfortable. If such requests are not possible, decline politely and offer other choices instead of commanding them to do something else. 

4. Speak more clearly and loudly without yelling. 

Senior patients may have hearing issues so speak at a slower pace while increasing your speaking volume. Always make sure you don’t come across as rude when speaking louder than usual. 

5. Provide your patients with lists and reminders when possible. 

It may not be as easy for your patient to keep in mind your reminders and instructions as some of them may have memory issues or are still recovering from surgery or trauma. Written instructions will help them stay on track. 

6. Be patient. 

Remember that your patient is feeling very ill so be more understanding if he/she ever gets cranky or raises your voice at you; they don’t usually mean that. Give them enough time to respond to your questions too. 

Once you’ve mastered these communication strategies with your patients, you will surely become a better nurse as you can provide better care to them. This will improve their overall experience with you and the facility you work for which could ultimately benefit your patient satisfaction scores. 

While many mothers give up their careers to care for their kids, some continue with their jobs whether it’s by choice or they just don’t have any other option. Some working moms feel guilty for leaving their kids all day to make a living but, being a working mom is never something to be ashamed of. 

Here’s why you should be a proud working mother: 

1. You get to provide for your family. 

You are earning for your family which means you can take care of them better. You can provide your kids with more than just their basic needs and because you have a job, you can give your family a better quality of life. 

2. You get a sense of independence. 

Some mothers feel helpless when they are dependent on their partners for financial support, even though there is no shame in that. But you don’t have to deal with that frustration because you are confident you can provide for your family yourself. 

3. You can continue working on your career goals. 

If your job is something you are truly passionate about, then you can live a more satisfying life as you are growing a family while doing what you love. Working moms experience less identity crisis too. 

4. You can enjoy more freedom. 

Of course, you love your kids more than anything but being with them 24/7 can make you feel like a prisoner and make you lose confidence. When you’re working, you can go out more often, even when it’s for work, so you get a sense of freedom. 

5. You can live a more balanced life. 

Moms don’t have to feel guilty about needing some time away from their kids even when it’s just for work or doing other errands. You’ll be happier when you can take care both of your family and yourself. 

Choosing to be a working mom or a stay-at-home mom won’t make you any less of a mother than others—you’ll always be the best one in your kids’ eyes. If being a working mom is what suits your motherhood lifestyle best, then embrace it and be proud that you get to enjoy the things to love about being a working mom. 

A little bit of motivation can change your life simply because it will provide you with a different perspective and drive you to do things beyond what you have previously achieved. Motivation is powerful but unfortunately, it doesn’t last very long on its own. 

Don’t worry here are habits you can learn to stay motivated every day: 

1. Wake up early in the morning. 

Motivated people can’t resist but work on their to-dos as soon as they wake up. Training yourself to get up earlier in the morning will allow you to get more things done and develop a hardworking attitude. 

2. Exercising and eating healthy. 

People who are highly motivated don’t just focus on a single goal; they are well-rounded and make sure to take care of themselves, so they have enough fuel to stay productive. Being fit is a must-learn habit to become a motivated person. 

3. Never settling for less. 

Being a motivated person isn’t just about getting the things done—it is about finishing things with the best quality that you can muster. Highly motivated people always give their all in everything they do, be it at work or home. 

4. Refusing to give up despite trials. 

It takes more than just a few setbacks to bring a highly motivated individual down. This is because they know their goals will be worth fighting through the tough times. Instill the never-give-up attitude in you to become highly motivated too. 

5. Working with productivity goals in mind. 

A highly motivated person doesn’t work for the sake of merely working. They work to achieve a goal and deliver an output that will determine their progress. Working with a specific goal in mind will change your attitude at work and lead you to progress further in life. 

The feeling of being motivated leaves as quickly as it comes so make sure to capture it and never let it go once it visits you. Learn the habits of highly motivated people we’ve shared above, and we guarantee that you will live life with more inspiration and purpose. 

Being a mom is a full-time job and unlike other jobs, you don’t even get to clock out at five o’clock because your kids need you 24/7. It’s normal to feel completely exhausted at the end of the day because after all, you are human. 

Don’t worry, there are ways you can still bond with the kids when you get home from work or after you have finished the house chores. Try these: 

1. Engage in activities that both you and your kids will enjoy. 

Bonding with the kids can be your chance to unwind too by sharing an activity you are passionate about with people you love. You can try painting or coloring books as a fun activity that will entice your kids and help them relax at the same time. 

2. Play fun indoor games with the family. 

You don’t have to travel far just to have some fun with the kids. You can play a relaxing board game with the family in the living room after dinner instead. The kids will enjoy it while you can recharge with your family’s presence near you. 

3. Get your kids to participate in the chores. 

A long list of chores can stress out any mom especially when she just got home from work. Cross out some chores off the list by letting your kids help you at home. It can be a fun bonding activity while being productive. 

4. Prepare ready-to-cook meals with your kids. 

Kids love to be in the kitchen plus it is a great opportunity to teach them their responsibilities in the household. Whip up an easy meal for the family with ready-to-cook kits that the kids can safely and easily do with your guidance. 

5. Read a bedtime story. 

At the end of the day, when all you want to do is rest, you can still make your kids feel loved by reading your favorite book together. It will put you in a relaxed mood after a stressful day at work and get your kids ready for sleep time too. 

There are no shortcuts to being the best mother to your kids but there are still ways you can do to make your mom life easier. Follow our suggested activities above and you’re sure to give your kids a fun time without depleting your energy levels. 

The nurse life is rewarding but tough, to say the least. While there are no shortcuts to making sure you provide your patients with the best care, there are things you can do to make your work life easier. 

With these hacks, you’ll save time while improving your patients’ satisfaction: 

1. Prime your IV slowly. 

Tiny air bubbles may form when the flow is in full blast. Instead, clamp the tube first before filling the drip chamber and let the fluid drip slowly. 

2. Use gauze when using a tourniquet to prevent hair-pulling. 

Placing a thin sheet of gauze between the tourniquet and your patient’s skin will make the experience less painful for your patient as it avoids tugging the hair. 

3. Hydrogen Peroxide is a great blood stain remover. 

Bloodstains are no big deal for nurses, but nobody wants a blood-stained uniform. Scrub it off easily with some Hydrogen Peroxide. 

4. Coffee powder is a good odor neutralizer.

If you can’t stand the smell of your station, place fresh coffee grounds in a bowl to absorb the foul odors in the air. 

5. Peppermint oil is ideal for stinky situations.

Adding a few drops of peppermint oil to your mask during a code brown can help you deal with the situation better. Peppermint helps calm you down too. 

6. Pause for a few seconds before leaving a room. 

Before leaving a patient’s room, pause and look around if there is anything you left behind or have forgotten to do. This will save you from making a second trip later. 

7. Alcohol swabs help fight off nausea. 

Foul smells are something all nurses deal with but they’re just too overwhelming sometimes and cause nausea. An alcohol swab under the nose can help fight it off. 

8. Try the triple-gloving method.

Wear three layers of gloves when dealing with a code brown situation. The first layer is for scooping waste, the second for replacing diapers, and the third for putting on new sheets. 

9. Be patient with patients who have needle phobia. 

Ask the patient to breathe in and out slowly for ten seconds to help him/her calm down. Tell your patient to wiggle his/ her toes too as a form of distraction. 

10. Petroleum jelly removes dried bloodstains. 

Sometimes, nurses are just too busy to even think of removing a fresh bloodstain, so it often dries out at the end of the day. Applying petroleum jelly can help remove it. 

Nurses already work so hard every day so even saving just a few seconds can make a huge difference in a busy nurse’s life. Follow these tips to make your work life as a nurse easier, even for just a short while. 

Unlike a 9 to 5 job where you clock out after eight hours at work, an entrepreneur needs to manage her business 24/7. In addition to that, some things need to get done at home like taking care of the kids or finishing the housework. 

Running a business can be overwhelming so here are ten tips to help with time management. 

1. Keep a time limit on your activities. Limit business calls to 5 minutes and meetings to 30 minutes. Small activities like this can easily eat up your time so discuss things straight to the point. 

2. Invest in technology. Automate repetitive and menial tasks. Many applications and software exist to lighten that workload for a minimal monthly fee. 

3. Don’t hesitate to delegate tasks. Assign your team the tasks that you need to get done for more efficient time management. 

4. Wake up earlier in the morning. Starting early means getting things done early. Set your alarm a few hours earlier in the morning so you can maximize your day. 

5. Keep a schedule for everything. Schedule both work and rest times and abide by your calendar religiously. Doing so will help you avoid hyper-scheduling and getting overwhelmed. 

6. Identify and eliminate non-productive activities. Ponder on what the “wasteful” activities in your business are, such as repetitive tasks that can be automated, and find a solution to get rid of them. 

7. Get the difficult tasks done first. Do the things you are most likely to procrastinate on first. Once you clear that, it will be easier to finish the rest of your to-do list.

8. Adopt the Pareto Principle. The 80-20 rule will help prioritize things in your business and solve issues with a more strategic approach. 

9. Consider hiring a virtual assistant. An assistant working remotely is more cost-efficient plus you can reach her/him from anywhere too even when you are working from home. 

10. Leave allowance for interruptions. Things rarely go as planned. Always plan your day with enough allowance for delays and unscheduled activities. 

Entrepreneurship is exciting yet it can be very demanding. Having an effective time management system will prevent you from being overwhelmed with mundane tasks so you can keep the passion you have for your business burning.