 We are all familiar with the fact that working long hours leads to burnout, stress, anxiety, and even severe health diseases such as heart attacks. But, despite all of that, we continue to push ourselves to work even harder and longer. An average person works 45 hours a week. And, some people work even 50 or more hours a week. If that weren't enough, they all fail to leave work at work and bring it home instead. They spend 'after hours' answering emails, returning phone calls, making presentations, etc. Most people believe that working more will contribute to higher productivity (which will, in return, contribute to more accomplishments). However, overworking can only make you less productive! When you burn out your mind and body, they stop functioning properly. Thus, it is necessary to leave work at work and use your free time to relax and recharge. We know how difficult that may be for some of you, but you must try! So, here are our seven ways to leave work at work. 1. Plan the End of Your Work DayThis sounds relatively straightforward, but many people fail to do so. Namely, when we arrive at work, we tend to go with the flow, finish tasks, procrastinate if there is time, or even complete some daily habits that drain our energy instead of helping us. But then, at the end of the work day, we realize we haven't done any prioritizing. So, we are forced to stay longer or bring our work home. This is all because we didn't plan the end of our workday! To prevent this from happening, in other words, to leave work at work, plan when you want to leave. Then, prioritize everything that you must do until that time. Don't waste your time on anything irrelevant. Plan your day and stick to that plan.  Don't be afraid to look at your watch while at work – let it remind you when it's time to leave. 2. Notify Everybody That You Have to Leave at a Certain Time If you constantly volunteer to work overtime, your colleagues and managers will get used to that. They expect you to finish everybody's work, fix all the problems, and simply handle everything they don't want to do. But, no matter how much you like working and being in charge of everything, doing all this work overtime will, sooner or later, drive you crazy. It will stress you out. Then, you will either get into a fight with somebody or with yourself. Neither of these 'stress managements' is good. You need to find healthy ways to deal with it and reduce overall stress. For instance, you can tell everybody that you won't be able to stay after working hours. Or, you can ask them to call you only during working hours. Do this once, then twice, every day of the week, and everybody around you will stop giving you last-minute tasks or expect your help after 5 PM. 3. Give Yourself Time to Leave Even if you decide to leave work at work, it will be hard at first. Right before you decide to leave, you will be distracted by emails, phone calls, questions from your colleagues, messy files, etc. You mustn't allow these things to prolong your working hours. So, every day, schedule some time to handle everything stopping you from going home. That can be just 20 minutes or half an hour before your departure. Treat those minutes like you would treat an important meeting. Focus on the tasks that must be done and don't allow anything or anybody to interfere. 4. Prioritize To get your paycheck and not worry about money, you need to do your work. And just as previously mentioned, you probably fill your days with random tasks that are not necessarily part of your work, and because of that, you don't finish everything on time. So, you are forced to stay late and do the work that you are paid for. You have to learn how to prioritize! Train yourself (that is, train your mind) to focus on the most important things as soon as you arrive in the office. Finish all the important things ahead of time, and then, if you have some time left, do the less important ones. Or, leave the less important ones for tomorrow.  Make a list of priorities as soon as you arrive at work. 5. Schedule Time for Hobbies after Work Maybe you work overtime because you get bored at home. But, who says that you have to go home after work. There are many other places you can go to and have fun. For instance, you can do your favorite hobby after work (go to a pottery class, language class, etc.) or do some physical activity (yoga, pilates, boxing, etc.). Or, go home to focus on cooking your favorite meals and maybe even share your recipes online. Find something that makes you relaxed and happy. Once you do, schedule time for it right after your work. This will undoubtedly motivate you to not overwork and spend your free time doing something you love. 6. Pick up the Phone We love our emails. They are an excellent means of communication. But, sometimes, waiting for a replay can take ages. That drains one's energy and time! So, instead of waiting for an answer to the important email, just pick up the phone. Calling your client, customer, manager, etc., over the phone will save you a lot of time you would otherwise spend typing, responding, checking, sorting, and who knows what else. Don't allow your cluttered and disorganized inbox to drain your energy and stop you from leaving work at work. To leave work at work, you need to change your strategy. But, of course, check with your manager first! You don't want to infringe on the company's policy.  Sometimes, all you have to do to leave work at work is pick up the phone 7. Take Advantage of Technology Phones can save you a lot of time, just like mentioned above. But so can the rest of technology! Technology is there to make our lives (and our work) easier! So, use it to your advantage. Find tools and apps that can help you do your job faster. Get a better phone, laptop, or even a better tablet if necessary. You would be surprised at how much time and energy you can save by using the right technology. However, don't let that same technology overpower you. When you have so many things in front of you – things that are blinking, clicking, ringing, etc., it is easy to get distracted. So, once again, use technology to your favor and turn it off when you need to stay focused. You can use an app for that too. For instance, an app called Freedom can, upon your command, turn off your Wi-Fi and disconnect you from everything in just one click. As you have seen, there are many ways you can leave work at work. We mentioned just a few of them, but you already know there are many more ways. You just have to research on your own, try a couple of your ways, and find what works best for you.   In a world run by corporations - money is the ultimate goal. The thin piece of paper is no longer a tool to make your life more comfortable—life has become a tool to make money. So, it’s not a surprise that having and gaining money gives you a headache. What if you can’t provide a good home for your family? Will you be able to find the right place to live and work within your budget? However, being tense about your savings won’t help you achieve your goals. So, we provided you with 6 secure steps to help you stop worrying about money. 1. Reset your mindsetBegin by expressing some empathy for your own situation. Don’t be too hard on yourself. Take a deep breath instead of obsessing about what went wrong. Get yourself in the correct mindset and convince yourself that you can solve this problem. You’ll be able to make better judgments if you stop criticizing your every move. Unless you can get yourself in the appropriate frame of mind, you will never be able to solve anything. As a result, before tackling your financial problems, you should practice self-compassion and being happy even if you’re not content with your finances at the moment. Seek helpThere’s no shame in being overwhelmed by everyday worries—money included. Sometimes, it’s best to take a deep breath and admit that you are in too deep and you need help. That’s a huge step! It’s not a bad idea to seek assistance from a professional. They will offer the best advice for improving your mental health, and good mental health is a base for every improvement.  Mental health is the most important thing to preserve to go forward. 2. Get factualDo you know that saying, “Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a present, a gift we should cherish?” You probably overstress about the “what ifs” and “would-be-nices.” Stop doing that. Evaluate your present situation realistically and appreciate all that you have at this moment, no matter how small you think that is. Put all the things on paper and get ready to make a plan. 3. Make a strategy to stop worrying about moneyA good strategy is half of the success. Having a strategy in place can allow you to better manage your finances. Begin by being open and honest with yourself about your current debt situation. Every good strategist knows that starting small and making a slow build-up is the wise thing to do. So, regardless of the interest rate, make a list of all your obligations in ascending order of size. Pay off the lowest debt first and then work your way up, paying the next smallest obligation first and so on. Once a debt is paid in full, the freed-up money rises exponentially and is hurled at the next one. 4. Use the gift of technologyThe good news is that technology works in your favor. Digital budgeting tools and applications may make money management simpler and provide strategies that are proven to work. You may tap into them by following these tips:
 Smart technology today makes saving and budget planning a lot easier. 5. Respect your limitsEven with the technology working in your favor and doing all the calculations for you, it’s quite easy to get carried away. You know that you should be saving, but that low-cost flight to Bali sure seems tempting, right? However, it’s crucial not to give in to these thoughts. Even making a small stretch to your budget can psychologically induce the downfall of your whole saving plan. So, this is the part where you need to be a little strict and respect the boundaries you set. This is especially important if you’re planning on a major and expensive change in life, like relocation or buying a new home. Professional movers often say that it’s crucial to stay within your limits when making a relocation budget in order to make your move as painless as possible. 6. Secure your retirementIf you worry about your future, you probably worry about your retirement too. So, It’s important to start saving early and automate your savings approach as much as possible. Your long-term financial picture will improve just by having a solid retirement plan. You can take advantage of 401(k) if provided by your employer, or you can start an Individual Retirement Account (IRA). You can open a myRA account even if you’re dealing with a financial setback after the pandemic and have just a few dollars to spare. Little by little, it will add up by the time the retirement comes.  Saving for your retirement doesn’t have to be extensive if you’re not in the situation at the moment. ConclusionStressing about money is stressing about existence. That is the world that we live in at the moment, so it’s perfectly normal. However, giving in to the pressures of capitalist society will not help you as an individual in any way. So, be sure to follow these six steps we provided you with, stop worrying about money, and step into the journey of mental health, pure happiness, and joy of living. Remember - money doesn’t create your happiness. You do. Meta description: Are you constantly on the edge of your seat thinking about your finances? It’s time to follow these steps and stop worrying about money!   Many seniors have opened their hearts to enjoying another chance at love in their golden years. For some, they've found their second soulmate, while others are enjoying love for the first time. One thing's for certain: It's never too late to fall in love and tie the knot. Although used to a life of independence, seniors can find creative ways to navigate marriage and merge lives. The key is deciding how much to merge while building a life together. Ways to Merge in Married LifeThere are many ways to combine your previously well-established lifestyles while still maintaining your independence. Buy a HomeAs a married couple, you may wish to gain an asset together by investing in property. If you already have your own home, consider renting it out. Rental income could cover the costs of your new home and give you an added sense of security. Seniors should also consider their estate plan, inheritance rights, and other legal issues before purchasing. Owning multiple properties does mean you can — as a couple — decide which house you'd like to make your home. Start a Business TogetherWhen you enter the second phase of your business life, you're armed with wisdom, experience, and clarity. Whether you need to generate income or not, starting a small business together is a fantastic way to keep busy and deepen the connection with your loved one. Business ideas can include anything from a tax consultation or dog walking business to concierge and gift-wrapping services. Accounting software is an essential tool for managing your finances. Choose accounting software that automates your invoicing and tracks your expenses so you can save time and effort that would otherwise be spent on manual record-keeping. In addition, accounting software can help you to stay organized and keep track of your income and expenses. This can be particularly helpful during tax season, when you need to provide accurate information to the IRS. Find a Shared PassionYou may have heard the old adage, "Couples who play together stay together." You have a lifetime of hobbies and well-established interests. Find something new that you're both interested in doing — it'll inject a sense of fun into your marriage. Whether it's joining a hiking club, book club, or cooking club, there's no shortage of options available. Finding a fun common ground is key to the longevity of a marriage. Combine FinancesThe older you get, the more complex your financial history may become. When entering your marriage, be transparent about your debt, assets, and financial situation. If you support family members, let your partner know. You may want to merge household and travel accounts but keep your own separate savings accounts. Alternatively, some senior couples merge all accounts and debt, which is another option. It's important to keep the lines of communication open and discuss how you'll manage your daily money. Making a Life TogetherCreating a new life of coupledom can take some adjusting, but sharing the load is worth the effort. It's quite possible to maintain independence while simultaneously sharing everything.   Working remotely offers many benefits, giving you flexibility in terms of when and where you work. If you've lost your remote job recently, you might be worried that you'll never enjoy this kind of freedom again. Don't despair. There are many remote jobs available out there. This resource guide provides the tips and tools you need to find your next role. Update Your Professional Profile Prepare your profile to increase the odds of a positive job search.
Know Where to Look for Work Here are some resources to help you find your next remote job.
Consider Starting Your Own Company If you don't find a remote job you love, follow these steps to start your own company.
Invest in the Tools You Need to Succeed Once you land your new gig, set yourself up for success with the right technology.
 In life, people can usually be classified into two categories. On the one hand, you have the very determined ones who have clear goals in their mind. On the other hand, some are less certain about what they want. But just because you fall into the second category, it doesn’t mean you can’t change that. Setting goals in life can help you achieve happiness and fulfillment. So, you’ve got nothing to lose. Just try it. Here are our six tips for setting goals when you don’t know what you want. No. 1 Identify Your Focus Areas for Setting GoalsYou might not know what you want exactly, but you can start with the general things. To do this, you should identify the areas you want to focus on. Here’s a list of the most common aspects of life that people wish to develop:
 Nobody likes being alone, so setting goals for a romantic relationship represents a common focus area. No. 2 Use the SMART Method for Setting GoalsThis is an excellent tip for setting goals when you don’t know what you want. The first mention of the SMART goals dates back to 1981, and it has been used ever since. While it can mean different things to different people, the main idea is that goals should be:
No. 3 Set a Timeframe for Your GoalsSet a timeframe once you’ve identified your focus areas and what you wish to achieve. Most things in life can’t be achieved overnight. Therefore, you have to learn to be patient and not give up. But setting a timeframe can motivate you. Now, depending on what you want, there are three types of timeframes for your goals:
 Setting goals when you don’t know what you want should also involve setting a timeframe to motivate you. No. 4 Write It All DownIt’s one thing to think about what you want to achieve and another to put it on paper. Once you write down your goals, you’ll have a clear picture of what you want and the available timeframe. You can make a goal board in your home or place post-it notes around the house. The idea is to see them every day and remind yourself where you’re headed. This can be highly motivating. No. 5 Make an Action PlanIt's not enough to identify what you want. Setting goals should also involve making a plan on how to achieve them. You can't expect things to happen without lifting a finger. For example, if your focus area is your career, you should make a plan on how to get your dream job. Find ways to constantly develop your skills, such as training courses or various projects. However, if you're not content with your current career path, you can always venture out. You won't be the first or the last person to decide that moving cross country for a career is a good idea. If you can find opportunities elsewhere, it's completely understandable that you will want to try them out. Don't get discouraged if you find your dream job on the other side of the country. You just need a well-defined action plan.  Setting goals should also involve making an action plan to achieve those goals. No. 6 Don’t Be Too Hard on YourselfOnce you've made a plan, you should stick to it. Of course, this is easier said than done. Nobody is perfect, and you will make mistakes along the way. But it would help if you weren't too hard on yourself. Plus, sometimes, things happen that are beyond your control. So, don't give up if you don't manage to meet a goal in the timeframe you've set. Yes, it isn't enjoyable, but it's not the end of the world. Just give it another try. Final ThoughtsSometimes it's hard to identify what you want in life. And even when you do, it might not be easy to obtain it. However, setting goals can motivate you, which will help you achieve what you desire. So, use these tips for setting goals when you don't know what you want. They will help you narrow down what's important for you and how you can attain it.   Image via Pexel If you are looking for a career that can truly impact people’s lives, becoming an independent insurance agent may be for you. But, there are a few steps you should take before launching a new endeavor, whether you plan to own and operate your own agency or want to work for one of the big guys. Real Life With Heather explains a few things you should keep in the back of your mind as you make your decision. Invest in a quality resume If you’ve never worked in insurance before, it makes sense to try your hand as a commissioned agent before starting your own business. Even if you don’t have experience in the industry, your resume can help you land a job. Crafting a quality resume is especially important if you are starting your career, such as if you’ve just graduated from college. Give yourself a head start by using a free resume builder to craft a great looking resume. But don’t overshare! As Monster explains, there are many things that you should not include on your resume. A resume writer will avoid redundant and unnecessary bits of information so that only the most impressive and relevant aspects of your professional career stand out. Pass your state exam No matter where you live, you must pass an exam to become an insurance agent. According to America’s Professor, you might also be required to take an approved course before being allowed to take the exam. Your pre-licensing courses depend on the type of insurance you wish to sell but may include everything from a general overview to ethics considerations. Establish yourself as a business Once you get a feel for the industry, you might want to start your own business as an independent agent. If you need to build your business skills beforehand, earning an MBA can boost your expertise in decision making, leadership, and communication. Online degrees allow you to learn on your own time so you can continue concentrating on establishing your business. When you’re ready to get started, choose a name for your organization. To establish an LLC—a step that has many tax benefits—you will need a unique business name. You should also appoint a statutory agent to handle legal documents and notification of time-sensitive events on your behalf. Search online for the steps to starting an LLC so that you can quickly and easily complete this task. Of course, owning a business comes with its fair share of responsibilities, so know your limitations and be prepared to outsource certain tasks that free up your time. This is essential as you get settled into your new career. For example, hiring a bookkeeper or accounting service ensures your ledgers are up to date, and that your taxes are handled by a pro. You may also need to connect with a temp agency or an attorney. Marketing yourself will also be necessary, but you can handle some of this DIY when you first start out. You can accomplish this through cost-effective measures like designing your own logo, building your website, and tapping into social media platforms for your digital marketing efforts. Sites like Squarespace or Wix will allow you to build an elegant website all on your own. Instagram, TikTok and FaceBook are some of the best places to begin your social media marketing, so tap into the free options, or look to their low-cost advertising packages. Know the benefits. While the job outlook for an independent insurance agency is fantastic, there are many other perks to keep in mind. Insurance is an excellent industry if you want to help improve people’s lives. You can help them find a policy that matches their needs and budget. You’ll get to meet lots of new, local people each day and will stay up-to-date on the technology that drives the industry. Combined with flexible hours and unlimited commission potential, a job in insurance is great for someone with a people-oriented personality. When you’re ready to make a change, consider insurance sales. Whether you want to help people protect their homes and cars or ensure they have enough life and health insurance for their family’s needs, you will make a difference. It is a high-paying and always-interesting career option in an industry that’s always in-demand. And if you choose to launch your own agency, you might just get to know the people in your community, too. This article is brought to you by Real Life With Heather, where I hope to inspire people to take charge of their lives and make them as amazing as they can be. I love my life and you can love yours too. For more information, please visit my site today   You are probably familiar with the expression: money makes the world go round. Well, we all know that money can’t buy happiness, but it’s really nice to have it. However, the last two years have been hard on all of us, financially speaking. Many people have had to deal with the financial setbacks of the pandemic, and others are still doing so. And when one's life standard drops, it becomes increasingly difficult to have a positive attitude and be happy. But, all is not lost. We need to believe that this will be only temporary and that things will get better. For that reason, this article highlights some valuable tips on how to be happy when you don’t have money. Continue reading to learn how to regain your positive mindset and overcome a financial struggle. Appreciate what life has given youIt’s spring, and it’s about time for seasonal depression to start going wild on us. And if you add it to a financial setback, it’s the perfect combination for disaster. However, things aren’t always as dark as they might seem. There are many things in our lives for which we should be thankful. And even if they don’t seem like much at first, just think how your life would be without them. For example, imagine how your life would be if you didn’t have the job you have. Sure, it might not be what you dreamed of, but it helps you pay your bills. And imagine how your life would be without your family and friends. In addition to being broke and depressed, you would also be lonely. Therefore, take the time to appreciate everything life has given you so far, and you will realize just how rich you are.  With your loved ones around you, it’s possible to be happy when you don’t have money. Focus on your loved ones Besides not buying happiness, money also doesn’t buy friendships. At least not true ones. And having good friends around you in difficult times can make you happier than any amount of money. Having someone to talk to or spend time with is priceless. The same goes with your family. Having loved ones around you can brighten your day and put a smile on your face. As a result, focus on the positive relationships in your life and nurture them. Have friends and family come over as often as you can and cherish every moment spent together. If you do so, you will have something to look forward to until you meet again. Also, think of fun activities that you can do together that don’t require spending money. Organize movie nights, game nights, or sleepovers. In addition, go for walks in the park together, have a picnic, ride bikes or roller skate. These are great and easy ways to be happy even when you don’t have money. In addition, it will help strengthen your bonds with your family and friends. Don’t be selfish Your problems are the most pressing ones because they are yours, and it’s completely understandable. However, never forget that others have their problems too. The coworker that annoys you with his constant blabbering might feel lonely and in need of someone that can listen. Or, that friend that you are talking to about your financial struggles could be having far more money troubles than you do. Therefore, maybe it’s a good idea to stop thinking about yourself for a second and pay attention to those around you. Try to be a good colleague and friend, listen to others, and be more patient and understanding. These are trying times for everyone, not just yourself, and a little compassion will get you a long way. Moreover, being able to comfort someone or put a smile on their face will make you happy even if you don’t have money.  Being a good listener can help you be happy and make others happy. Think about relocating If you live in an expensive city or neighborhood, it might be time to think about moving. Of course, finding a better place to live can be stressful and challenging, but it might also help you save on living expenses - especially if you move to one of the most affordable West Coast cities. Several of them offer lower living costs, fantastic career chances, outstanding educational opportunities, and lots of entertainment. For example, Irvine, California, Vancouver, Washington, or Eugene, Oregon are some of the best cities to live in on the West Coast. At the same time, you can make the whole process seem like a new adventure for you and your family and make the most of it. You can get everyone involved in research and decide together what type of home would make your family happy. Pay it forwardHelping others will make you feel useful while also reminding you of the importance of modesty and giving back to the community. And you do not have to be wealthy to help others. All you need is some goodwill. As a result, get involved in your community and become a volunteer. You can serve food or wash dishes at the social canteen, spend time with the elderly from the local nursing home, or help out at the homeless shelter. Or, you can help your friends or neighbors walk their dogs, do their grocery shopping, and babysit if they need it. You can even think about paying for the next customer at the coffee shop. Small gestures like this can mean the world to some people. And most importantly, making other people happy will make you happy too, even when you don’t have money.  You can be a volunteer at any age without needing any money. Making others happy doesn’t have a price and can be done with small gestures. Stay active If you don’t know by now, exercising can boost your mental health. It can improve the quality of your sleep, lower your stress levels, and increase your concentration and creativity. Not to mention that exercising can help you stay fit and healthy, resulting in higher self-esteem. And the best part is that you don’t need money to stay active or work out. A little determination and research will get you started, and once you have experienced the benefits, you will want to keep going. Start by looking up some beginner yoga moves or simple exercises on the internet, go for walks or short runs. You can even call a friend or family member to join you and make the experience even more pleasant. That way, you will stay active while also socializing and having fun. Final thoughtsAs you can see, you can still be happy when you don’t have money. You just need to be grateful for what you have, focus on the good parts of your life, and remember that this is just a temporary situation. Stay positive and keep your loved ones close, and you will get through any difficult moment in your life much easier.   Photo from: www.pexels.com Do you ever feel like you have no energy left even though the evening is hours away? Do you feel exhausted and ready for bed as soon as you get home from work? And, if you're juggling work with other obligations, you might feel the fatigue even earlier in the day. So, what is that all about? Well, low energy and exhaustion are usually symptoms of your unhealthy habits and lifestyle choices. To boost your daily energy levels, you have to learn and replace some of the bad daily habits that are draining your energy. That's why, in this article, we will go over some of the most draining daily habits and what you can do to fix them. Not Getting Enough SleepWhen you don't get enough sleep - your body feels weaker, and you only have half of your energy. This has a major impact on your productivity during the day. Moreover, if you try to catch up by working extra, you'll have less time to sleep, and the cycle will continue. To fix this, you should try getting at least eight hours of sleep every day. It might seem like it won't make a difference, but it will. You will notice a massive change after just a few days of going to bed on time. What's great about this is the fact that even if you're a super busy person, this is a self-care tip you can easily make time for every day. Not Exercising RegularlyIf you feel exhausted and fatigued, you probably feel like you don't have enough energy to work out. However, while skipping a workout to rest may appear to be the best option, it is not. If you skip exercise one day because you're tired, it might become a habit that leaves you feeling even more tired. That's why we suggest you continue your fitness regimen without listening to your inner voice. One of the reasons to continue pushing yourself is endorphins, or happy hormones, that are released by exercise. These endorphins can help you feel better and regain your energy. Moreover, exercising, in general, can help you boost your mental health. Poor DietIf you're juggling work and other obligations, you probably rarely have time to cook your own food. Moreover, since it's more convenient, you, just like many others, probably prefer fast food to something of substance that can take a long time to prepare. If you want to stay more alert and generally feel healthier, you need to start eating healthier. Part of that can be fixed by making your own healthy meals from time to time, but even when you're ordering delivery, you should start looking for healthier options. For more opinions and reviews on meal delivery services, you can check out consumeropinion.org or other similar sites. Taking Things PersonallyWe are social animals who frequently identify ourselves based on our interpersonal ties. The efficacy and depth of these partnerships can vary. In other words, there are certain individuals with whom we simply click and others with whom we do not. Someone's lack of connection with you does not always imply that they dislike you. So, if you can't find common ground, don't take it personally. If you often worry if other people like you, just like excessive worrying in general, is another one of your bad habits that are draining your energy. Failure to Follow ThroughWhen you make a promise to a friend, a colleague, or your employer and don't keep it, you generate additional worry, anxiety, and work for yourself in the long run, and it lowers your self-esteem. You'll have more energy and self-esteem if you do what you say you're going to do when you say you're going to do it. ClutterConstantly being surrounded by clutter can also drain your energy. Believe it or not, messy and untidy surroundings, whether at your office, living room, or bedroom, can make you feel weary. All of the extra things in your home tend to be distracting. The best way to deal with that is to purge your space of everything you don't need. Moreover, instead of leaving your clothes lying around or leaving dishes in the sink, you should practice cleaning up after yourself. Not only will you feel better in your surroundings, but you will also feel better knowing you don't have a mess that's waiting for you to clean it. Leaving Unfinished Tasks On Your To-Do ListAnother thing that can drain your energy and make you feel both mentally and physically tired is a massive pile of unfinished to-dos. When you focus on the bigger tasks and keep on piling up smaller ones, it can also make you feel drained at the end of the day. So, to exchange this bad habit with a healthy one, you need to learn to better manage and plan your time. Make sure when you write out the to-do lists that you mention the most important ones and the moderately important ones. Try to leave out the ones that aren't that important. It will save you time and keep your energy intact. ComplainingYou may think that by complaining, you're just getting rid of your negativity. That's not true. In reality, complaining is one of those daily habits that are actually draining your energy. Complaining is so much worse for you and the people around you. You're not just radiating negativity when you complain; you're also pushing others around you to work in spite of it. Nobody likes to be around someone who is always complaining about something. People don't want to hear it, so don't be a part of the issue. Instead, be a part of the solution. Use the time you would use to complain to do something to actually fix your problem. Final ThoughtsThere are so many daily habits that are draining your energy, and we didn't even get to mention some of the others out there. By knowing what habits are making you feel tired, you can learn what practices to avoid in your everyday life. So, take what you learned here, try to keep away from negative feelings and clutter, and focus on maintaining healthy daily habits!   Photo courtesy Pixabay Vacations are the hard-working American’s relief from the stress of deadlines, gridlocked commutes and the unrelenting pressure of meeting the boss’s expectations. It’s the one time when stress should be a non-factor as you unwind from the daily grind. Unfortunately, a surprising number of people experience stress when they’re on vacation, notes Quartz, or preparing for one. If you happen to be short on time and budget it can be difficult to plan and enjoy a trip that’ll help you take the edge off. These days, there are lots of resources that can help you tailor a vacation to your means and desires. Any vacation starts with a few “big-picture” decisions, choices that determine where you’ll go, how you’ll get there, and what you’ll do when you get there. The first step in putting together a stress-free vacation is to pick a locale and transportation that make sense for you and your family. Travel agents can help you get good deals on travel and accommodations, but remember that with a little time and patience you can put together a trip that’s both memorable and cost-effective. Real Life with Heather has a few ideas on how to do just that. Roads Less TraveledIf you want to go overseas, consider emphasizing off-the-beaten-path destinations rather than high-priced hot spots that are sure to stress your budget and, probably, elevate your blood pressure. Paris is a glamorous travel mecca but you can stretch your travel dollar much further by spending a week traversing Normandy, Brittany, or the Languedoc region. If you want a European experience but just can’t afford Europe, consider Quebec, where the French language and Gaelic culture abound. The same principle applies if you’re vacationing domestically. America is full of great travel options that won’t break the bank. Yellowstone, the Grand Canyon, colonial Williamsburg, and Branson, Missouri, are just a few of the many affordable vacation destinations that are sure to leave you happy and nostalgic for a return trip. All About TimingFlorida in July may sound great but you’re sure to run into big crowds at the beach and longer-than-usual lines at Disney. September, October and early November are generally more affordable and less hectic than the traditional vacation season. Scheduling a trip off-season has its own hazards (hurricane season seems to arrive earlier and stay longer each year), so keep an eye on the weather and do your research about the best times to visit when the tourist population thins out. Travel SmartDon’t forget that a stress-free vacation is one that allows you to make the most of vacation activities. That can be hard to do if you’re spending too much of your budget on travel expenses. Consider enrolling in rewards programs that allow you to get in on deals, flight upgrades and other benefits. U.S. News & World Report points out that one popular option is to sign up for a credit card with an airline so you can rack up privileges and rewards as quickly as possible. Focus on low-cost carriers and steer clear of the frills and options that’ll dig into your vacation funds unnecessarily. Book your flight early, pack light and carry on as much gear as you can: that’s a good approach for any traveler. You’ll want to keep your money and valuables safe during your travels, especially when you’re going out of the country. If you’re taking in the natural wonders and local attractions in places like Cancun, Kathmandu or Paris, your excursions can quickly become chaotic if you come across any problems like a theft or an accident that requires medical attention. To travel with added peace of mind, consider setting up an account with an inexpensive money transfer service before you leave home. Using a service like Remitly, for example, allows you to receive funds from the U.S. to Nepal for as little as $3.99 for transfers in just minutes. Also, don’t dismiss the wonders of traveling by car, van or recreational vehicle. Vacation time is a great opportunity to load up the car and take in the scenery with your family. Your AAA membership can put you in touch with lots of travel resources, such as construction upgrades and free towing if you break down. If you like being one with nature, camping is a fun and budget-friendly option. America is chock full of beautiful campsites. Home Security: Give Yourself Peace of Mind Don’t underestimate the importance of securing your house and protecting your valuables while you’re gone. There are a number of options available these days, everything from smartphone apps that allow you to monitor your home in real time to home security systems that alert the police the moment someone breaks in. If putting a new bulb in the front porch light isn’t enough security for you, look into a robust and dependable source of home protection.   Photo: Unsplash.com The number of people struggling with mental health issues has been on the rise ever since the pandemic started. Lack of social interaction has caused us to develop different types of depression - the most common of psychological disorders, but unfortunately, not the only one. Issues of mental nature are rarely discussed due to a fear of being misunderstood, rejected even. Sadly, the lack of awareness towards the subject has caused the public to develop a certain stigma around it. There are a variety of mental health myths circulating out there, mental health myths you should not believe - six of which we are just about to be busted! The Most Common Mental Health Myths You Should Not BelieveMental disorders are no joke. The consequences caused by them can, quite literally, be disastrous, fatal even. The thing is, recognizing problems of psychological nature can be tough, not only for the person experiencing them but also for their loved ones. In order to be able to identify the issue, one must become aware of what constitutes a mental disorder. And the first step towards raising awareness is busting the myths that have, for so long, been confusing the public. #1 Mental Illnesses Cannot Be CuredThe exact cause of mental conditions can't always be pinpointed. Scientists do agree on the fact, though, that susceptibility to certain illnesses can be passed down from one generation to the next. In most cases, however, people develop such disorders in life rather than being born with them. Despite us not knowing the cause of such illnesses, recovery is something that isn't all that far-fetched. Milder psychological disorders, for instance, can be fully resolved. As far as more serious conditions are concerned, we cannot talk about the complete "cure". We can say, though, that their symptoms are, in most cases, manageable. That means that a return to a normal lifestyle is possible for a majority of people with mental health conditions. With time, their condition will improve as long as they follow through with proper treatment. Believe it or not, exercise plays a significant role in mental health recuperation. Research has shown that regular exercise actually helps people feel good mentally and thus, promotes faster recovery. The importance of physical activity has been recognized by psychiatrists as well, many of which often turn to prescribing it to their patients. #2 Only Adults Deal With Psychological IssuesAnother one of the mental health myths you should not believe is that children cannot develop disorders. The truth is, anyone can suffer from a mental condition. The age of an individual has absolutely nothing to do with the state of their mind. Actually, reports have shown that it is more common for disorders to present themselves early on in life. Most frequently, during the pubescent period. Puberty, in and of itself, is a tough period for every child due to hormonal changes that occur in the body. The hormones can sometimes negatively impact the mind and lead to a variety of mental problems. Unfortunately, these do tend to go unnoticed for quite some time. #3 Mental Disorders Aren’t a Typical OccurrenceAn outright lie! They are much more common than one might think! Before the pandemic, it has been estimated that 1 in 4 people suffered from a mental disorder of some kind. COVID-19 has managed to further exacerbate the problem. #4 Mental Illness Is a Sign of WeaknessActually, the complete opposite is true. Somebody who has a mental illness is not weak but incredibly strong. Strong because they are trying their best to cope, despite the burden of their condition. People that have never experienced what it means to battle a psychological issue, like depression, cannot begin to fathom how hard it is to go about your day while having something that's constantly bothering you. They cannot possibly understand how hard it is to wake up each morning feeling down, trying to hide your inner thoughts from the rest of the world. It takes an extreme amount of willpower to do all of that - something that a weak person would definitely not be able to gather. #5 Only Women Are Susceptible to Developing Eating DisordersThe media has made it appear as if it's only women that are at risk of developing eating disorders. This is, however, nothing but another one of the mental health myths you should not believe! Sure, women might be more prone to suffering from anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and similar, due to the media's obsession with body image. But men are not spared, either! Studies show that 15% of anorexia patients are precisely males. If we are talking about overeating, the percentiles are even higher, with 25% of all cases of this disorder being associated with men. #6 Loved Ones Are of No Help to Mental PatientsThe power of love shouldn't be neglected! Earlier, we mentioned that exercise can aid mental health recovery. It's similar with love, or actually, with loved ones willing to help. But how can they be of assistance? Well, by being able to recognize the symptoms of psychological issues. Be wary of the following symptoms:
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