Hello Everyone

There are many days when we may feel under the weather, targetted or as though there is a conspiracy theory against us, however, I've realised in recent months that despite the words that we tell ourselves in our heads, we have a lot more going for us than we care to realise. While expressing gratitude has definitely been on the rise in terms of seeing it plastered everywhere on social media, there is no reason why it should be deemed any less unworthy. Yes, it may seem weird to make a list of or verbally expel certain aspects of your life, but I believe that it is one of the many ways that we can exude positivity, optimism and pure happiness within our lives. 

Daily, I find myself creating an altered take on the 'To-do list', by writing down a checklist of 'Things I need to do today', followed by a least three 'Things I'm Grateful For'. Focusing more closely on the 'Things I'm Grateful For', I make sure that I give myself at least 5 minutes to sit down and truly think about what I'm grateful for. This can be anywhere from specific people to objects. Hey, it can even be experiences or even something as simple as running water. So below I list the different avenues and categories that I take into consideration when producing my gratitude list.

1. People

First in the list, is showing gratitude towards people. This can be by thanking them for being in your life, appreciating and being grateful for their actions towards you or a certain situation, this can also be because of how they make you feel. Anything will suffice, but truly think about what you catch yourself thinking or saying whenever you're in their presence. That will more than likely be what you're grateful for.

2. Objects

Another way in which I show gratitude is towards the objects that I either use daily or the ones that make my life that little bit easier. I find myself frequently showing gratitude towards my favourite mug and drink for easing me into each and every morning and making rising just that little bit more comfortable. I believe that expressing gratitude towards objects is a relatively easy way to express gratitude. However, I believe it definitely means a lot more when you have fewer items that are in higher rotation, compared with having many items that you seldom use.

3. Experiences

Finally, we have experiences. Experiences are the places that we've been to, things that we've been through or scenarios that we've lived through that have made exactly who we are. This can be travelling to another country, attending a lecture, or having a deep conversation with best friends, family or acquaintances. I'm also a strong believer in anything that is good is good, and anything that is bad is good. Meaning, regardless of the situation or outcome, there is always something we can positively learn. And there is an endless number of things that we can write down for this category.

Another variation of compiling a list of things that you're grateful for is by going on a gratitude walk. Gratitude Walks consist of being outdoors and creating a stream of things that we are grateful for. While this method of showing gratitude can be similar to a stream of consciousness, I find that it does truly help. It helps to stop the mind from thinking about random and irrelevant things, and instead focus on the truly important.

I hope you all enjoy reading my tips on finding things to be grateful for and expressing gratitude in general. Thanks once again for stopping by~

Millicent

What I was listening to whilst making this post

Lakeside - Fantastic Voyage

In today's post; I bring to you a few words that'll hopefully fuel your desire, to read some posts that don't just talk about the 'IT' bag or another make up product that you do not need.

No. Instead, I just wanted to bring you some words of wisdom, that I myself have recently discovered and taken into consideration. (Ha, it's like a game of Chinese whispers).  I recently started reading an amazing book, titled "Everything that remains" by Minimalists, Ryan Nicodemus and Joshua Fields Millburn, that has me taking certain life choices into consideration and helps me to focus on the products, items and things that either do or do not add value in to my life.

Earlier on this week, I took the time out to stop after a hard day of finding housing for my second year at university, and I took this memoir out of my bag, (mainly because I already knew it was there, and recently, I've been carrying it around, similar to how celebrities during the early 2000s carried around small animals in their bags). And I continued to read from where I left off. The main author in the book, Joshua Fields Millburn quoted lines from the book' Fight Club'.


"Reject the basic assumptions of civilisation, especially the importance of material possessions"

and the other quote was,

"The things you own end up owning you."


These two quotes seriously had me stop for a moment, and close the book (and momentarily lose my page). They made me consider all of the possessions, objects and random trinkets that I have given value in my life. The little things that aren't needed, but certainly affect my mood either in or out of the house.

So, as you have probably gathered from the title of this post, below are 3 tips that I have created, that are intended to bring a certain type of comfort or new found peace into your life. Everything below was inspired by the amazing Ryan Nicodemus and Joshua Fields Millburn and their book "Everything That Remains".

1. Reconsider
OK. So by this first step/tip, I thought that it would be best to sit down and truly think about everything that you own, be it either in or out of sight. And just reconsider and think about whether these possessions and objects do actually bring value to your life. Now, when I say value, I mean does this certain possession make your day go by smoother/swifter. And no, I'm not talking about the nth number of black jeans that you have lurking around. I'm talking about owning one type of object that you actually need, for example; a bag (that's right, singular)

So instead, what you need to do is remove items that duplicates, and keep only one. And keep ones that offer your life something. And begin removing items like the 5 extra pairs of black jeans that all have holes in, but you're saving them just in case. Egro, leading me on to my next tip which is...




2. Remove
Probably one of the hardest steps along this minimalism path. Only because, at this moment we are saying goodbye to the things that make us, us. Be it, clothing, books, shoes, additional mugs, hats anything. We have given all of these products a shelf in our hearts and it is obviously hard to say goodbye to such things. However, taking away from the fact that these objects are just that. They're objects, it should make the removing (and mourning) process a lot faster. As these things aren't what make us, us. In fact they're what make us collectors.



"- Collecting material possessions is, in many ways, not unlike hoarding. The word collector just sounds prettier than its alternative."

"What are you talking about? Collecting isn't the same thing as hoarding. It's the exact opposite."
"Not really. Most of the time it is exactly like hoarding."

Ryan looks at me suspiciously, as if I've broken wind in front of him.

"Don't believe me? Let's look it up." I queue up the thesaurus app on my phone, which lists the following synonyms under the first definition of collection: pile, heap, stockpile, hoard. I hand the phone to Ryan with a raised eyebrow. He reads it and shakes his head with acceptance and hands back my phone."


So. Taking the time out to remove items that are no longer needed is one of the hardest, but most productive steps along this path. Once removing items, you will definitely feel more at ease and feel an invisible weight lifted off your chest.



3. Relax
The best step of them all. The step that makes you feel as though you have just finished running a marathon. The step that marks a clear minded and more optimistic you. Once you have taken everything you own into consideration, given them all a second thought and then deciphered through what you do and don't need to keep, you are able to take a step back and realise how freeing it is to own only the items that add value in your life.

And there we have it, everything that I have either learned so far, or actually taken into consideration. I hope that this post gave you an insight, and the knowledge needed, in order to 'Reconsider, Remove and Relax' (see what I did there?).

Millie xx

p.s If reading isn't your thing, Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus have a documentary on Netflix  explaining similar points mentioned in this post. The documentary is titled 'Minimalism'.

What I was listening to whilst making this post

Pink Martini - La Soledad

Jacket - H&M |  Jeans - MISS SELFRIDGE | Shoes - REEBOK |  T-shirt - PRIMARK 

Image, take by Millie Simon 
Quotes taken from 'Everything That Remains' by Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus

After only being at University for the past 5 months, I still believe that I have somewhat changed as a person, and I believe that it was evident throughout my blog too. There have multiple changes; a new logo, layout/theme, and my consistency has improve and I just think that the overall quality has developed.

So in today's post, I wanted to basically write a letter to my pre-University/post-Sixth Form self, and just tell her the ins and outs of... well everything that I've learned in this short amount of time

1. Set Targets

Setting targets, having ambitions and dreaming about goals is what gives everyone that drive in life. Having your future target in the back of your mind, or preferably in eyesight, is definitely enough to make anyone want to change where they currently are in life. One of the main goals that I had during 2016, was to make it to University. I must say it was far from an easy road getting there, however with determination, a desired destination in mind (and a lot of sleepless nights) I can finally say that I'm a university student, who is currently happy and is studying the course that she thought of (and still enjoys) since she was a child. As before mentioned, with having something in mind, you too can do anything!

2. Writing It Down

This step goes hand in hand with the previous tip, however it's far from incorrect. Even if you already know them and know you wont forget them, it's still better to have everything written down, as seeing things in a physical form makes you more likely to complete the pending task. So grab anything, be it a pen and paper, your notes app on your smart phone or a voice note. Record, record, record and take another step closer towards clearing your head and getting to where you want to be/ the person who you want to be.

3. Never Assume

I can easily say that this saying gets mentioned at least 5 times in a week in my life. Nevertheless, despite it's repetition, it has the same meaning every time it's mentioned. There is no point in sitting back and waiting for things to magically fall into your lap... 'Never Assume'. There's no point in letting your health take a back seat and no longer taking time out for yourself... 'Never Assume you'll always be okay'. So focus on the now instead of trying to read the future, put your all into everything and then you can finally see all your hard work pay off.

(Everybody knows it, but...) " Never assume, It makes an ass out of you and me"


4. Try Something New
Even thought this happened towards the latter end of 2016, I started a YouTube channel (check it out here). Which was obviously scary, as its a new market. I had never fully made a video of my own before, let alone looked a camera in the eyes, and tried to tell it a story. However, I did it. I'm proud of myself and its another than I can check off of my list of things to complete. So, my advice to you would be to try something new; whether you'll be good at it or not. As, its better to regret doing it, than to regret not doing it.

5. Spend Money On What Is Important
Many Universities give students a large sum of money (also know as a Maintenance Loan/Bursary) to help with purchasing the needed books, equipment and travel for each course. This large sum of money is extremely helpful if you're a student who doesn't come from a very wealthy background, and it can be a major help to other students who are well off also. HOWEVER (as many students find out the hard way) this money IS NOT a one-way ticket to a shopping/spending spree. Sure, it's money that you've never had before, and ASOS and ZARA's sales are working in your favour. But think logically; what would serve you better? Getting the equipment needed for you to perform well in your course. Or having the new IT bag, that will unfortunately be out of season in 3 months? So just think logically and just plan/map out your finances and your future-self will thank you. Same goes to those of you who live in the US. Student loans are not a joking matter. However you can keep those monthly payments by, refinancing your student loans.

6. Look After Number One

It may seem very selfish to say, but there is nothing more important in this world than yourself. Sure many of us work for other people, or take time out of our day to help others, but as I've found myself saying a lot this year, whether it be to the people around me, or me yelling it at myself. 

"If people want you at your best, you have to look after yourself first."

Yes, it may seem harsh, but how can you put your all into something, if your health isn't 100%? It doesn't make any sense, it leaves you with some long term problems, for example; stress, anxiety, insomnia, the works. Believe me, I've had it all! So look after yourself, and everything else will fall into place.

7.  Be Open Minded
Like many things in life, having (and keeping) and open mind is easy, simple and most of all FREE. There could be a person who knows everything, however if they are still unable to listen to others in order to get an insight on situations and topics from a different perspective, then they'll forever stay in the same place. University is definitely the place and type of working environment that will force you out of your comfort zone. This step luckily links you to the next tip...

8. Have Fun
Overall, you need to remember that, you're only ever at University once in your life, you need to definitely make the most of it. Meet as many people as you possibly can, as they'll be able to help you grow inside and outfit of university. Take part in as many extracurricular activities as you can, as you'll meet people who have interests either similar or completely different from yours, which will you give you an insight to topics you would've otherwise ignored. Be a sponge and absorb as much information as you possibly can, as there are not many other places in the world with the same plethora of information readily waiting.



Millie xx
p.s if you think that you have a friend or know someone who could do with the same advice, why not share this post? The links to do so are below x

What I was listening to whilst making this blog post

Zapp - Computer Love

1. Laptop/Tablet
Many students need some sort of laptop or tablet for their course, so I suggest (if you have the money) buying the best that you can afford, as you'll be stuck with it during and after your course. Getting one that comes with a lot of space is key too, as I can assure you, there is no such thing as 'light homework', so the things you'll be researching, writing and drawing up, all need somewhere to be saved. Also, if you're anything like me, I'm terrible when it comes to leaving applications and tabs open... so I also suggest finding one thats great at multitasking.

2. Overdraft
Overdrafts are obviously not compulsory to some, but they definitely help you out when funds are low, and can help tide you over until you get your loan each term (especially if you're one of the unlucky ones who finishes their loans quickly). They can sure be a pain paying back most of the time, so if you do find it hard to do so, I suggest, finding a well paid job too. NOTE: don't take on too many hours though, as it'll cut into precious study time.

4. USB

I cannot stress how important USBs are, they are what save you when the internet fails. They save all forms of homework, and luckily sometimes you don't even need to bring your laptop with you, all you need to do is bring along your USB. Can I get 3 cheers for a lighter bag? Hip hip!

5. Train/Bus Pass 

This essential doesn't apply to everyone, but if you're a commuter like me, using your legs alone isn't going get you from A to B. So its best to work out your designated route, and find out how you plan on getting to and fro everyday. Me personally, I have my trusty bike and a train pass.

6. Punctuality
There's nothing worse than turning up late to class or even a lecture, as it disrupts the classes due to your lecturer having either start again, or you just totally miss out, and everyone knows that university costs too much money to be missing out on anything.

8. Healthy Diet
Sounds weird... I know. But it too is very important. Sure it's very tempting to eat bad food as it's always available and tastes great. However, you won't receive the needed nutrients to keep you going and would eventually be left feeling sluggish and ultimately out of energy. So, say no to that 'one' McDonalds, or that can of Coke, and instead opt for a healthy salad and a bottle of water. Your mind, body and pores will thank you for it.

9. Good Attitude
I truly believe you wouldn't be at university if you weren't willing to try and learn something new. However, good attitudes are still essentials. Minds need to be kept open and you ALWAYS need to be prepared to think outside the box, as many lecturers will only tell you things once, and from that point its up to you whether to take it on board or not.

I hoped this helped x

Millie xx

What I was listening to whilst making this post:-

Daryl Hall & John Oates - Everything Your Heart Desires

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Hey guys... something a little different today. I thought I'd give you guys a small list of little things to when you're feeling down or not so confident. So without wasting any time, here's an insight into the small but eventually easy steps that helped me overcome my insecurities and help my self-esteem/confidence. Let's begin....

 

 

1. DON'T COMPARE YOURSELF TO OTHERS
 I have personally overcome this step, and I'm not going to lie, it wasn't easy. I would frequently be scrolling on my feed on Tumblr, Twitter, Instagram etc. and just get myself upset by seeing society's idea of "perfect" and just to be clear, there's no such thing as perfect... Everybody is perfect in their own way!! Which initially made me think that if you stop looking at other peoples "lives" then you'd finally focus on your own. Because most people on the internet only show you what they want you to see. Therefore, meaning that their lives are not perfect either... And they probably have the same insecurities as you.

2. IDENTIFY YOUR INSECURITIES
 For many people this step will be easy... They already know that they dislike their; bums, legs, nose etc. You should be able to ditch those little insecurities and turn them in to positive attributes. If you feel pessimistic towards a body part, you should enhance it. By that I mean, if you don't like your bum, arms, or your forehead for example, you should buy some eye make-up, because it would draw people to your eyes instead, a pair of figure hugging jeans for your bum or a complimenting top for your arms, because if you receive a compliment on something, it makes you want to show it off. Therefore eliminating your insecurity.

 3. IDENTIFY YOUR POSITIVE ASSETS
This might be a hard step, especially if you're a negative person and doesn't see any positive aspects on your body. (I'm pretty sure that everyone reading this something amazing about their bodies :) All you need to do is take time out a realise that there are many amazing things about your body. I mean, me myself I found this step hard... But then I realised that the same aspects that I disliked, for example my bum (due to stretch marks), was the same body part that people were drawn to... Therefore making it a positive asset. So really, all you need to do is think about the body parts that people compliment and then you can start off from there.

 4. BELIEVE IN YOURSELF
It's just as simple as saying things like; "I'm good enough" or "I'm important"... these little steps go a LONG way... believe me. If you truly begin to believe in these little pieces of advice you will see a difference. You'll start to see that you wear a smile more, and you find it easier to accept advice, rather than reject it *clears throat* and you'll just overall see a huge change, you'll be happier and you can eventually do more. For example... I never though that I could create a blog of my own... But here I am 2 years later still going strong... sure I'm not no Aimee Song from SongofStyle or Ivania Carpio from LoveAesthetics, but I'm still going, and that's all that matters.

 5. SMILE

A cute and simple step. You can begin either in the mirror or without one. Just every time you start to feel down, just remember to smile and if you do have a mirror handy... smile, you'll eventually feel the power behind an acute facial expression. Even if the smile is a fake one, hopefully it reflects how you should be feeling on the inside, and then eventually that smile won't be fake.

p.s If my 5 ways to boost confidence weren't enough, you can also check out one of my favourite bloggers Gracie Francesca, because she has multiple pieces of advice and ways she started loving herself more.

 Millie xx

What I was listening to whilst making this post

Grimes - Go (ft. Blood Diamonds)

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