Wellbeing

10 tips for improving self-esteem

03/09/2025 by Roy Sutton

If tips for improving self-esteem are what you seek, dear reader, then you might find this article helpful.

Self-esteem is an important aspect of life as it affects how we think, feel, and behave. It is the confidence we have in ourselves and our abilities. And it’s the respect we have for ourselves too.

People with high self-esteem tend to have positive outlooks on life, while those with low self-esteem may struggle with insecurity and self-doubt.

Improving self-esteem can be a challenging task, but it is not impossible.

Here are 10 tips for how to improve your self-esteem:

10 TIPS FOR IMPROVING SELF-ESTEEM

1. Stop comparing yourself to others:

Everyone is on their unique journey through life, and you’re on yours. There is no comparison.

A major issue for people today is the way social media makes it almost inevitable that we compare ourselves to others. We see so much of what they’re doing every time we pick up our smartphones.

It can be easy to believe that they’re doing better than us. Then we fall into the trap of feeling inadequate or not good enough.

Remember, social media creates a false view of reality.

The idea that everyone is doing well except you is simply misleading. Everyone has their fair share of life’s problems, despite anything social media might suggest. Everyone struggles from time to time.

So, don’t compare yourself to what you believe others are doing. Instead, focus on your progress and accomplishments.

2. Embrace your flaws:

No one is perfect, and it’s important to remember that everyone has flaws.

Instead of focusing on your flaws and feeling bad about them, try to find ways to embrace them.

For example, if you have freckles, embrace them as a unique feature of your face.

Perhaps you’re not good with words. So what? There are plenty of people who are not good with words. So, make a joke about it rather than let it bother you. Make it part of your authenticity and personal charm.

3. Focus on the positive:

We can all find ourselves thinking about all the negative things in our lives. It’s human nature really, but focusing on the negative can have a detrimental effect on self-esteem.

So, instead, make a habit of focusing on the positive things in your life.

This can be as simple as writing down three things you are grateful for daily. There’s always something for which we can be grateful, even if it’s just a favourite television show or enjoying coffee with a friend.

4. Surround yourself with positive people:

We are the people with whom we mix. Human beings are social animals, and we live within groups. The people within those groups can have a significant impact on our self-esteem.

Being accepted by the group requires us to be a reflection of the other members. If they’re cynical, sarcastic, and negative, then we gradually become the same, if only to fit in. However, that negativity is not good for our self-esteem.

So, we need to spend time with people who uplift us and make us feel good about ourselves. Therefore, we must avoid those people who bring us down or make us feel bad about ourselves.

5. Treat yourself with kindness:

The way we talk to ourselves can have a big impact on self-esteem.

We must be kind to ourselves and avoid negative self-talk.

We must talk to ourselves as we would to a friend. If a friend came to us with a problem, we would be supportive and understanding, right?

So, why wouldn’t we want to treat ourselves with the same kindness?

We must always be kind to ourselves.

6. Set goals and achieve them:

Nothing boosts our confidence and self-esteem like an achievement.

So, setting and achieving goals can be a great way to boost self-esteem.

We start by setting small, achievable goals and work our way up to bigger ones.

As we achieve our goals, we start to feel more confident in ourselves and our abilities. It’s a virtuous circle.

7. Take care of yourself physically:

Our physical health and well-being are essential to self-esteem.

Taking care of ourselves is important for our overall well-being and can also help improve our self-esteem.

So, we must make sure we are getting enough sleep, eating well, and getting regular exercise. When we take care of ourselves, we feel better both physically and mentally.

8. Practice emotional self-care:

Our emotional well-being is as important as our physical health.

So, we must learn to take care of ourselves emotionally by taking time to relax and do the things we enjoy.

This can be anything from reading a book to taking a long bath, going for a walk, or listening to a favourite piece of music.

9. Learn something new:

When we possess knowledge, we tend to get the respect of others. And obviously, that’s good for our self-esteem.

So, learning something new can be a great way to boost self-esteem.

It can be something small, like learning a new recipe, or something bigger, like taking a class.

The act of learning something new can make you feel accomplished and can help to build self-confidence.

10. Give it time:

Remember this: self-esteem is not something that can be improved overnight.

It takes time and effort to build self-esteem, but by incorporating these tips into our daily lives, we can improve.

Conclusion:

As readers will recognize, self-esteem is an important aspect of our lives, and it can be challenging to improve it.

However, if you follow these tips, you will start to feel better about yourself, and your self-esteem will improve.

And remember this: if you can only do one thing, be kind to yourself.

You’re better than you think you are, and the world is a better place with you in it.

Please share this post:

Were these tips for improving self-esteem helpful?

If you found this article useful, please share it on social media with your friends.

When you share, everyone wins.

So go on, please share it now. If you do, I will be forever grateful, and you’ll be helping a keen blogger reach a wider audience.

Thank you for your support, dear reader.

How to Manage Work-Life Balance: Effective Strategies

10/19/2024 by Roy Sutton

5 Effective Strategies for Busy Professionals:

Finding a good balance between work and personal life can be challenging in today’s fast-paced world. Many people struggle to juggle their job responsibilities with family time, hobbies, and self-care.

A healthy work-life balance means having enough time and energy for both your career and personal life without feeling overwhelmed or burnt out.

Achieving work-life balance takes effort and planning. It involves setting clear boundaries, prioritizing tasks, and making time for activities that bring joy and relaxation. Some people find success by creating a schedule that allocates specific hours for work and personal time. Others focus on increasing efficiency at work to free up more time for other pursuits.

Technology can be both a help and a hindrance to work-life balance. While it allows for more flexible work arrangements, it can also make it harder to disconnect from work. Unplugging from work-related apps and emails during non-work hours can help create a clearer separation between professional and personal time.

Key Takeaways

Set clear boundaries between work and personal life to avoid burnout
Prioritize tasks and make time for activities that promote well-being
Regularly assess and adjust your balance to meet changing needs and goals

Understanding Work-Life Balance

Work-life balance is about managing time between work and personal activities. It affects health, relationships, and job satisfaction. Finding the right balance can be challenging but is crucial for overall well-being.

Significance of a Healthy Work-Life Balance

A good work-life balance is key for mental and physical health. It reduces stress and burnout risk. People with balance are often more productive at work.

Balanced individuals have stronger relationships. They spend quality time with family and friends. This leads to better emotional support networks.

Work-life balance boosts job satisfaction. Employees feel valued when employers respect their personal time. This can lead to increased loyalty and lower turnover rates.

Creativity and problem-solving skills improve with balance. Time away from work allows for new perspectives and fresh ideas.

Common Challenges to Achieving Balance

Technology blurs the line between work and personal time. Constant connectivity makes it hard to unplug from work. Many feel pressure to respond to emails or messages at all hours.

Workplace culture can hinder balance. Some companies expect long hours or prioritize work over personal life. This creates stress and guilt for employees trying to maintain balance.

Personal expectations and perfectionism cause issues. People may overwork trying to meet unrealistic standards. This leads to neglecting personal life and relationships.

Financial pressures often force people to work extra hours or multiple jobs. This leaves little time for personal activities or rest.

Lack of boundaries between work and personal life is common. Without clear limits, work can easily spill into personal time.

Assessing Personal Needs

Finding balance starts with understanding what matters most. This means taking a close look at your priorities and setting clear limits.

Identifying Personal Priorities

People have different things they value in life. Some focus on family, while others put career first. To find your priorities:

Make a list of what’s important to you
Rank these items from most to least crucial
Think about how you spend your time now
Compare your current habits to your list

This helps show if your actions match your values. You might find you need to make changes. For example, if family is a top priority but work takes up all your time, it’s a sign to adjust.

It’s okay if priorities shift over time. Regular check-ins help keep you on track. This might mean weekly reviews or monthly goal-setting.

Setting Boundaries Between Work and Life

Clear boundaries protect personal time. They help prevent work from taking over. Here are ways to set limits:

Create a work schedule and stick to it
Turn off work notifications after hours
Have a separate space for work at home
Learn to say no to extra tasks

It’s important to communicate these boundaries to coworkers and bosses. Let them know when you’re available and when you’re not.

Technology can help or hurt boundaries. Use it wisely. Set up auto-replies for emails after work hours. Use apps to block work-related content during personal time.

Remember, good boundaries mean better focus at work and more enjoyment of personal life. It’s not selfish to protect your time. It’s necessary for long-term success and happiness.

Strategies for Work-Life Integration

Work-life integration aims to blend personal and professional aspects seamlessly. It focuses on flexibility, setting boundaries, and effective time management.

Time Management Techniques

Effective time management is crucial for work-life integration. Use digital tools to track tasks and deadlines. Create a daily schedule that includes both work and personal activities.

Break large projects into smaller, manageable tasks. This approach helps prevent feeling overwhelmed and increases productivity.

Set specific times for checking emails and messages. This practice reduces distractions and improves focus during work hours.

Prioritize tasks based on importance and urgency. Use methods like the Eisenhower Matrix to categorize tasks and tackle them efficiently.

Utilizing Flexible Schedules

Flexible schedules allow employees to adjust work hours to fit personal needs. This can mean starting earlier or later, or working longer days for a shorter work week.

Discuss flexible options with employers. Many companies now offer flex time to improve employee satisfaction and retention.

Use flex time to attend personal appointments or family events without sacrificing work productivity. This balance leads to reduced stress and increased job satisfaction.

Be clear about availability during flexible hours. Communicate with colleagues to ensure smooth collaboration despite different schedules.

The Role of Remote Work

Remote work offers unique opportunities for work-life integration. It eliminates commute time, allowing for more personal activities or family time.

Create a dedicated workspace at home to maintain focus and productivity. This separation helps in mentally transitioning between work and personal life.

Set clear work hours when working remotely. This practice prevents work from spilling into personal time and helps maintain boundaries.

Use video conferencing and project management tools to stay connected with colleagues. Regular check-ins ensure alignment on tasks and deadlines.

Take breaks during the day to recharge. Short walks or quick exercises can boost energy and productivity in a remote work setting.

Creating a Supportive Work Environment

A supportive work environment is key to managing work-life balance. It involves building a culture that values employees’ well-being and provides resources to help them thrive both professionally and personally.

Developing a Flexible Company Culture

Flexible work arrangements are crucial for a supportive work environment. Companies can offer remote work options, flexible hours, or compressed work weeks. This allows employees to better manage their personal responsibilities.

Paid time off and vacation days are important parts of a flexible culture. Generous PTO policies encourage workers to recharge and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Leaders should set an example by taking time off and respecting others’ personal time. This helps create a culture where balance is truly valued.

Regular check-ins between managers and employees can help address workload concerns. Adjusting tasks or deadlines when needed shows the company cares about preventing burnout.

Importance of Mental Health Services at Work

Mental health support is essential in today’s workplace. Companies can offer counseling services, either on-site or through employee assistance programs.

Stress management workshops and mindfulness training can give employees tools to cope with work pressures. These programs show the company’s commitment to mental well-being.

Creating spaces for relaxation or meditation at work can provide a much-needed break during busy days. This physical environment change supports mental health.

Regular communication about available mental health resources is important. It helps reduce stigma and encourages employees to seek help when needed.

Maintaining Physical and Mental Well-being

Taking care of your body and mind is key to work-life balance. Good habits help you stay healthy and handle stress better.

Exercise and Physical Activity

Regular exercise boosts energy and mood. Aim for 30 minutes of activity most days. This can be a brisk walk, bike ride, or gym session.

Mix cardio and strength training for best results. Cardio helps your heart and lungs. Strength work builds muscle and bone.

Try to move more during the day. Take stairs instead of elevators. Have walking meetings. Stand up and stretch every hour.

Exercise can also be fun. Join a sports team or dance class. Play active games with family or friends. Physical activity doesn’t have to feel like work.

Stress-Relief and Self-Compassion

Stress management is vital for well-being. Find ways to relax that work for you. Some people like deep breathing or meditation. Others prefer reading or listening to music.

Mindfulness practices can reduce stress. Pay attention to the present moment. Notice your thoughts without judging them.

Be kind to yourself. Treat yourself like you would a good friend. Take breaks when you need them. Say no to extra tasks if you feel overwhelmed.

Make time for hobbies and activities you enjoy. This could be art, gardening, or cooking. Doing things you love helps you recharge.

Practical Tips for Everyday Balance

Finding daily balance requires smart habits and intentional choices. These tips can help create harmony between work and personal life.

Incorporating Hobbies and Personal Interests

Hobbies enrich life and provide stress relief. Set aside time each week for activities you enjoy. Try scheduling hobby time like an important meeting.

Make a list of hobbies you’d like to try or revisit. Pick one to focus on this month. Carve out 30 minutes, 3 times a week for your chosen activity.

Join a club or take a class related to your hobby. This creates accountability and helps you meet like-minded people.

The Importance of Regular Breaks

Taking breaks boosts productivity and well-being. Step away from work tasks regularly throughout the day.

Try the Pomodoro Technique: • Work for 25 minutes • Take a 5-minute break • Repeat 4 times • Take a longer 15-30-minute break

Use breaks to: • Stretch • Go for a short walk • Practice deep breathing • Chat with a coworker

Unplug from work devices during breaks and after hours. This helps create clear boundaries between work and personal time.

Long-Term Advantages of Work-Life Balance

A healthy work-life balance offers lasting benefits for both employees and employers. It leads to improved well-being, higher job satisfaction, and better overall performance in the workplace.

Boosting Job Performance and Productivity

Improved productivity is a key advantage of work-life balance. When employees have time for personal activities, they return to work refreshed and focused.

This balance allows workers to recharge, leading to increased creativity and problem-solving skills. They can tackle tasks with renewed energy and enthusiasm.

Employees with a good work-life balance often show higher levels of engagement. They feel more committed to their jobs and are likely to go the extra mile when needed.

Companies benefit from reduced absenteeism and turnover. Satisfied employees are less likely to miss work or seek new jobs, saving businesses time and resources on hiring and training.

Averting Burnout and Mental Exhaustion

Work-life balance helps prevent burnout and mental exhaustion. Employees who have time for personal pursuits experience less stress and anxiety.

Regular breaks from work allow the mind to rest and recover. This leads to better mental health and emotional well-being over time.

Balanced employees are better equipped to handle workplace challenges. They have more resilience and can cope with pressure more effectively.

Physical health also improves with proper work-life balance. Adequate time for exercise, sleep, and healthy meals contributes to fewer sick days and higher energy levels at work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Work-life balance is a complex topic with many aspects to consider. People often have questions about strategies, challenges, and benefits related to achieving balance in their lives.

What are some strategies for improving work-life balance for women in demanding careers?

Women in demanding careers can set clear boundaries between work and personal time. They can delegate tasks at work and home to free up time. Prioritizing self-care is crucial for maintaining energy and focus.

Finding a supportive network of colleagues and mentors can provide valuable guidance. Negotiating flexible work arrangements, when possible, can help manage competing demands.

What techniques can companies implement to enhance work-life balance for their employees?

Companies can offer flexible work hours or remote work options. They can encourage employees to take regular breaks and use their vacation time.

Providing wellness programs and mental health support shows commitment to employee well-being. Clear communication about workload expectations helps prevent burnout and fosters a healthier work environment.

What are some common challenges faced when trying to achieve work-life balance and how can they be addressed?

Time management is a frequent challenge. Using productivity tools and techniques can help people prioritize tasks effectively.

Guilt about neglecting work or family is common. Setting realistic expectations and communicating openly with colleagues and loved ones can ease this burden.

Technology blurring work-life boundaries is another issue. Establishing tech-free times and spaces can create needed separation.

What are the key benefits of maintaining a healthy work-life balance?

A healthy work-life balance leads to improved physical and mental health. It reduces stress and prevents burnout, leading to increased job satisfaction and productivity.

Better work-life balance often results in stronger personal relationships and a more fulfilling life outside of work. It can also foster creativity and new perspectives that benefit both personal and professional spheres.

Can you provide innovative ideas that have been successful in achieving work-life balance?

Some companies have implemented “No Meeting Wednesdays” to give employees uninterrupted focus time. Others offer sabbaticals or extended paid time off for personal projects or travel.

Job sharing, where two part-time employees split a full-time role, has proven successful in some industries. Unlimited vacation policies, when implemented thoughtfully, can promote better balance.

What are some practical steps to take to establish a sustainable work-life balance?

Start by assessing current time allocation and identifying areas for improvement. Set specific, achievable goals for both work and personal life.

Learn to say no to non-essential commitments. Schedule dedicated time for self-care, hobbies, and relationships.

Regularly reassess and adjust the balance as life circumstances change. Seek support from family, friends, or professionals when needed.

If this article is useful to you, please share it on social media with your friends. When you share, everyone wins.

I appreciate your support. Thank you.

The secret to happiness that everyone should know

05/11/2024 by Roy Sutton

If you’re reading this blog post, dear reader, perhaps you’ve been searching for the secret to happiness. If you have, you’re not alone. Many people search, but few find real happiness.

However, if happiness is what you seek, allow me to enlighten you.

Money’s not the answer:

When you hear news of someone winning big on a lottery, do you ever think that you’d be so much happier if only you could win big too? You’d be happy, if only you had a lot of money, right?

Certainly, having money can make life comfortable. There’s no question about that. And who wouldn’t want to be comfortable?

Having money can allow you to do all sorts of things you couldn’t do otherwise. Live in a nice house; wear the finest clothes; drive a nice car; and travel first class to exotic places.

However, there’s one thing that money cannot do for you. It cannot make you happy. It’s a fact that having a lot of money by itself can never make you happy. There are plenty of very wealthy people who are miserable.

Happiness is a state of mind:

It is also a fact that if you aren’t happy without money, then suddenly gaining a lot of money will not change the way you feel. If anything, its impact on your life will probably make you even less happy.

Happiness is a state of mind. It’s the capacity to appreciate life for what it is and not what you think you’d like it to be. It’s being content with what you have, whatever that is.

Happiness is a positive mental attitude, a willingness to see the good side of every situation, regardless of how bad it might be in reality, a determination to enjoy the moment, and being comfortable in your own skin.

Work towards creating your pot of gold, by all means, dear reader, but in doing so, never lose sight of what matters most.

The period of human life is short, and it goes by in the blink of an eye.

Yesterday has gone, and you may never know tomorrow. The here and now are the only certainties you have.

This moment is your life, so you must find a way to enjoy every moment. Get the most out of them all. For, as we say, where I come from, you’ll be a long time dead.

The secret to happiness:

Enjoy simple, inexpensive pleasures like having a laugh or a coffee with a friend. That’s when you’ll be happiest. That’s how memories are made, too.

Accept that your life will be full of challenges, which is what makes it all interesting.

And recognise that by having to respond to challenges, you are growing as a person. So it makes sense to respond to every challenge with enthusiasm because you can only win, ultimately. Either you’ll succeed, or you’ll learn a lesson.

And remember this too: as your life passes, you won’t remember those expensive shoes you bought or the latest gadget, but you will remember the experiences you had with the people who mattered most to you.

Enjoy life for what it is and don’t fret about what it isn’t. The secret to happiness is contentment.

If you can be happy without money, then having money will be a bonus.

If you found this article useful, then please share it on social media with your friends.

When you share, everyone wins.

So go on, please share this blog post now. If you can do that for me, I will be forever grateful, and you’ll be helping a keen blogger reach a wider audience.

Thank you.

Articles that might also appeal to you:

Filed Under: Wisdom Tagged With: Attitude, Happiness, Inspiration, Life, Meaning, Mental Health, Motivation, Philosophy, Sage Advice, Wellbeing, Wisdom

Why enjoying yourself can never be a waste of time

04/26/2024 by Roy Sutton

Time you enjoyed wasting, was not wasted. ~John Lennon

Regular readers of this blog will know that I am a great believer in making the most of your time.

In particular, a constant message from me is that you should not waste your time. However, as with everything, it is important to strike a balance, of course.

As the late John Lennon reminds us in his observation above, truly enjoying yourself can never be a waste of time.

Enjoying yourself and having fun have positive benefits for your physical and mental health.

For a start, it reduces stress.

Also, what would be the point of life if you couldn’t have a little fun occasionally? All work and no play will make you a very dull person indeed.

Remember the words in that old Music Hall song, “Enjoy yourself, it’s later than you think. Enjoy yourself while you’re still in the pink.”

For any reader not familiar with the expression ‘in the pink‘, it’s British slang for being in a good state of health.

You can’t be serious all the time, dear reader.

Sometimes you’ve just got to have some fun.

So go on, and start having some fun right now. You know you want to.

Ad - Web Hosting from SiteGround - Crafted for easy site management. Click to learn more.

DISCLOSURE: This website is a Siteground affiliate. A small commission will be received for any purchase made via the links. There is no additional charge to you. Thank you.

If you found this article useful and inspiring, then please share it on social media with your friends. When you share, everyone wins.

So go on, please share it now. If you can do that for me, I will be ever so grateful and you’ll be helping a keen blogger reach a wider audience.

Thank you for your support.

How to deal with criticism in the workplace

11/04/2023 by Roy Sutton

Have you ever had a problem dealing with criticism in the workplace, dear reader?

If you have, you’re not alone.

Most of us can be a little sensitive when we’re criticized by other people, particularly in the workplace. That’s natural, and I struggle with it just as much as the next person.

However, over the years, I’ve learned that criticism comes in two types, as follows:

Constructive criticism; and
Destructive criticism

What’s the difference?

People who offer constructive criticism are genuinely trying to help, even if that isn’t immediately obvious.

However, just because they’re trying to help doesn’t necessarily mean they’re right about what they’re saying. I’ll get back to that point shortly.

When you’re subjected to destructive criticism, then someone is just having a go at you. To hurt you, for whatever reason.

That may be to bolster their own ego, or they may not like you very much and so can’t resist the temptation to belittle you or just generally make you feel uncomfortable.

Remember, there are people who get off on other people’s discomfort and so like to have a go at people when the opportunity arises. These are the haters and the trolls. They exist in the workplace, as well as on social media.

How to deal with constructive criticism:

When you’re on the receiving end of criticism, don’t take any of it personally. Remember, you’re bigger than that.

Just remain calm; listen to what’s being said; consider the person saying it; and, of course, the rationale behind their comment.

As you absorb what has been said to you, ask yourself this question “Is this person being constructive or destructive?”

If you feel they’re being constructive in offering their comment, then the next question to ask yourself is, “Do they have a fair point?”

In answering that question, you must be honest with yourself.

Remember, it’s a sign of maturity when you can acknowledge your inexperience and mistakes.

And you can’t learn from your mistakes unless you recognize them first.

So if, after careful reflection, you feel that they do have a fair point, then take it on board and use it as a learning opportunity.

At this point, thank your critic for the feedback and decide how you might use it to improve and be better at what you do.

You might even ask your critic for suggestions if you think they can help you.

Even constructive critics are not always right:

Not every self-appointed critic has a universal monopoly on know-how and common sense, however well-intentioned they may be. Even so-called experts get stuff wrong occasionally.

So in reflecting on any constructive criticism offered, your conclusion might be that they don’t have a fair point. And as long as you’re being honest with yourself, it’s perfectly reasonable to say, “You know what? I think they’re wrong.”

If that’s the case, then be polite, thank them for their feedback, and agree to disagree if necessary.

Accept that they offered their comment in good faith and that their intentions were honourable, but just move on without any sense of feeling hurt just because someone had the temerity to question your approach.

They’re entitled to their opinion, but you don’t have to accept it.

How to deal with destructive criticism:

If someone is attempting to be destructive in their criticism, then don’t rise to the bait. Just smile politely and move on.

Do not give anyone the satisfaction of a reaction or signs that they’ve gotten to you. That’s the oxygen on which they feed. It’s the dopamine hit they crave.

You’re better than that, so don’t allow yourself to get drawn into their game. They’re unworthy of a reaction or any of your emotional energy.

And never allow such people to chip away at your self-esteem.

That’s what they’re trying to do, so know that, and as you’re smiling, just say to yourself, “I’m better than you, and your attempt to have a go at me won’t get you anywhere. So stop wasting your time and mine.“

Conclusion:

Recognize that criticism has two forms. Either way, never take any of it personally, even if you suspect your critic is being personal.

If your critic is being constructive, then be honest with yourself and question whether your critic has a point. If they do have a point, then you must learn from it.

If your critic is being destructive, then do not give them the satisfaction of a reaction. Just smile and move on.

If you’re not sure whether they’re being constructive or destructive, then give them the benefit of the doubt, assume they’re being constructive, and act accordingly.

Please share this post with your friends:

If you found this article useful, then please share it on social media with your friends.

When you share, everyone wins.

So please share it now.

If you do, I’ll be ever so grateful, and you’ll be helping a keen blogger reach a wider audience.

Thank you for your support, dear reader.

Articles you might find interesting:

You might like to try these free games too:

Filed Under: Wisdom Tagged With: Attitude, Criticism, Criticism at work, Happiness, How to deal with criticism in the workplace, how to handle criticism at work, Inspiration, Life, Meaning, Mental Health, Motivation, Philosophy, Sage Advice, Wellbeing, Wisdom

The importance of friends to our lives

07/04/2023 by Roy Sutton

Friends are the family you choose. ~Jess C. Scott

Dear reader, were you a fan of that wonderful American, television sitcom Friends? Wouldn’t it have been great to share their company and all the fun they had in Central Perk?

For me that show highlighted the important role that our friends play in our lives.

It is a fact that we don’t get to choose our family but the good news is that we do get to choose our friends.

Friendship is a relationship of equals. A good friendship has a power dynamic that’s always in equilibrium.

Friends are the people whose company we enjoy; people with whom we feel a real sense of connection and with whom we share common interests. They are also people we’d be willing to go out of our way to help if we thought they were in trouble.

Family and loyalty go together of course. You can’t really have one without the other. And a relative can be a friend too, of course. As were Ross and Monica in Friends, for instance.

However just because you’re related to someone doesn’t mean you’ll like them or that they’ll like you. Being related is no guarantee you’ll enjoy their company.

Friends are different; friends are special.

If you have a small number of really close friends then you’re very lucky indeed.

Appreciate your friends because they’re the people that make life worth living. They’re the people that add a sparkle to a life that could otherwise be quite dull.

Poem about friendship:

If this blog post has caught your imagination, you might like to read this original poem, Friendship.

Please share this post on social media:

If you found this article useful then please share it on social media with your friends. When you share, everyone wins.

So go on, please share this blog post now. If you can do that for me, I will be ever so grateful and you’ll be helping a keen blogger reach a wider audience.

Thank you for your support.

Articles you might also find interesting:

You might like to try these free games too:

Filed Under: Wisdom Tagged With: Attitude, Happiness, Inspiration, Life, Meaning, Mental Health, Motivation, Philosophy, Sage Advice, Wellbeing, Wisdom

25 facts of life that might get you thinking

03/20/2023 by Roy Sutton

Searching for the facts of life, dear reader? I guess the question is, what do we mean by the fact of life?

Well, for some it means the birds and the bees. For me, it means trying to make sense of life and the lived experience.

Here are 25 facts of life which are my take on the world based on my own lived experience.

I hope you find some useful insights here.

If you do, please feel free to share them.

Facts of life (1-10):

We live by our wits.
Just because it’s dismissed as a conspiracy theory, doesn’t mean it’s not true.
Just because it looks genuine doesn’t mean it’s not fake. That goes for people too.
Human beings are all flawed. You may not be perfect but you’re as perfect as the next person.
Time is more valuable than money. You can earn more money, but you can’t get more time. With time, once it’s gone it’s gone. Use it wisely.
We all make a living by selling something to someone. In exchange for adding value in some way to the lives of others, we earn money. Money is a measure of the perceived value we add.
You can choose to be whatever you want but you must accept that there will always be trade-offs. Everything comes at a price and that price must be paid first.
Life’s what you make it. It will never be perfect but with hard work and determination, it can be good. However, if you want the best life for yourself, you’ll need to carve it out yourself.
Just because people don’t share their troubles doesn’t mean they don’t have any. No one can ever truly know the battles other people face. So, be careful when judging.
You must always be prepared for when opportunity knocks. Life is an endless stream of opportunities just waiting for the fleet-footed and those ready and waiting to seize the day.

Facts of life (11-17):

There’s only one way to gain experience. The hard way. You can’t train experience. You must go out there, make mistakes and learn from them. In short, there’s no elevator, you must take the stairs, one by one.
All too often, people choose to move on because they failed to appreciate what they had. It’s easy to think that the grass is greener somewhere else, but the grass is greener where it’s well-watered.
You may be angry at the way you’ve been treated. You may feel you have every right to be angry. However, a chippy attitude will never win over hearts and minds. You’ll catch more flies with sugar than you will with vinegar.
Those who can only see virtue in their own opinions are keen to close down those with alternative opinions because they’re concerned that the public may listen to and be influenced by those with alternative opinions.
It’s wrong to think that the law will protect the individual. It won’t. Do or say anything that runs counter to the interests of the powerful elite, and it will come back to bite you. If you want to go against the powerful, you’ll need numbers on your side.
When the powerful elite suggests the need for limitations on what people are allowed to do, what they have in mind will only apply to ordinary folk. They have no intention of being constrained by such limitations themselves.
Giving is easy but if you need to take it back, that’s when it gets difficult. Be careful what you give if there’s a possibility you may need to take it back.

Facts of life (18-25):

Politicians are not on your side. They’re driven by personal ambition and self-interest. Your interests only matter to them when being seen to be doing something for you is useful to them, politically.
It’s unwise to agree to anything that would give any government too much control over your life. You cannot trust a politician.
There is no such thing as government cash. There’s only taxpayers’ cash. Even when governments borrow money, that’s just money taken now from future taxpayers. Governments have no cash of their own.
Acting together, we are strong. If enough of us band together we are invincible. We don’t have to accept all the nonsense. We can and should push back. Operating in great numbers we can scare the hell out of the politicians and the powerful elite.
No one grants us freedom. We are free people, and no government should ever be allowed to believe, mistakenly, that it controls us. We have rights, they’re inalienable, and politicians need reminding of that, constantly.
Those seeking to manipulate our language, are trying to control the debate. Changing what we say and how we say it, is part of an agenda aimed at creating a world that suits their interests but not ours. We must all push back, constantly.
The result of complicating communication will be misunderstanding and miscommunication. And misunderstanding and miscommunication can only ever lead to problems and tensions between people. So, keep it simple, always.
It’s strange in the modern world that so many seemingly sensible people are willing to accept some incredibly silly ideas without question. Never be afraid to challenge the orthodoxy.

Please share this post with your friends:

If you found these facts of life interesting then please share this post on social media with your friends. When you share, everyone wins.

So go on, please share this post now. If you can do that for me, I’ll be ever so grateful and you’ll be helping a keen blogger reach a wider audience.

Thank you for your support.

You might like to try these free games too:

Filed Under: Wisdom Tagged With: facts about life, Facts of Life, Inspiration, Life, Make sense of life, Motivation, Odd facts, Philosophy, Sage Advice, Success, Wellbeing, Wisdom

Why passion is the key to success

02/10/2023 by Roy Sutton

Have you ever wondered why passion is the key to success, dear reader?

If success is your aim then received wisdom suggests that you should find your passion. You’ve heard that before I’m sure. However the phrase is now spoken so often that it has become a bit of a cliché, don’t you think?

And of course, once something becomes a cliché then it’s hard to take it seriously, wouldn’t you agree?

Then again, just because something has become a cliché doesn’t in itself mean that it lacks an underlying truth.

It must matter to you:

From experience, I can tell you that if you really want to succeed at anything then whatever it is must matter to you. And I’m not talking about mattering just a little bit. I mean it really, really, really must matter to you. It must be as important to you as the air that you breathe.

You can call it a ‘passion’; you can call it something with which you have a ‘sense of connection’; or you can call it your ‘Why’.

Whatever you call it, you’ll only have the determination to see it through as far as it goes if it actually matters to you.

Make your mark:

How lucky are those people who find something in life that matters so much that it drives them to make their mark? To be recognised for making a significant contribution to their chosen pursuit.

That pursuit could be painting or writing or playing a musical instrument. It may be computers or fast cars. It may be starting a business and making serious money. Whatever it is, it’s that special something which for those people is not only interesting and absorbing but rewarding too.

It becomes so important to them that it would be their hobby if they couldn’t make a living at it. Because they love it so much, it’s not really working at all, for them it’s a pleasure.

It’s not work if you’d do it anyway:

It’s something for which they have a sense of enthusiasm or ‘passion’ and instinctively they recognise that it’s what they’re good at. And of course, because they love it, they practise and keep practising. And because they practise they hone their skills and they get even better at it. This creates a virtuous circle.

Constant practise will help you excel and reach the very top of your game.

Sadly for most people, that special something is something they never find.

If you haven’t found it, keep looking:

However, if you’ve yet to find that special something, you must never stop looking. One day you might just stumble upon it and it’s never too late for you to become the person you really could be.

That’s why passion is the key to success.

Please share this post:

If you found this article useful then please share it on social media with your friends. When you share, everyone wins.

So go on, please share it now. If you do I will be ever so grateful and you’ll be helping a keen blogger reach a wider audience.

Thank you for your support.

You might like to try these free games too:

Filed Under: Wisdom Tagged With: Attitude, Happiness, Inspiration, Life, Meaning, Motivation, Philosophy, Sage Advice, self-actualisation, self-actualization, Success, Wellbeing, Why passion is the key to success, Wisdom

How much should I be paid?

08/12/2022 by Roy Sutton

Dear reader, have you ever asked yourself the question, “How much should I be paid?” Probably, I would guess. Most people do at some point. Certainly, it’s a question I’ve asked myself many times.

We live in challenging economic times, so we’re all keen to ensure that we earn as much as we can. The question is, how much?

What is work?

In the modern age, people tend to think in terms of their careers, and many lose sight of what work is all about.

A career is just a natural progression of jobs within a given profession or industry through which we develop our skills and experience over time. Each of those jobs represents work.

In simple terms, work is just doing something for someone in return for money. Essentially, we provide a service or solve a problem, and an employer is our customer.

So, we’re paid to deliver results for the employer. With the emphasis being on delivery.

How much should I be paid?

The financial reward you get for the work you do is based on two things: –

The value you can add; and
The laws of supply and demand (also known as the market rate).

The value you can add is directly proportional to the skills you have and your knowledge and experience of the profession or industry in which you are seeking to work.

The supply and demand for your skills and experience within the job market will dictate how much an employer will be prepared to pay.

Why don’t businesses pay people more?

Essentially labour is a commodity. By definition, a commodity is something that can only be differentiated in terms of price.

None of us will pay more for a commodity than necessary.

For example, say, you want to buy a loaf of bread and in one store it costs $1 and, in another store, the same loaf costs $1.50. Which store will you buy from? The $1 store, obviously, because that’s what any rational person would do. Why would anyone pay more than they must?

Well, businesses think in the same way.

Businesses exist to make a profit. Profit is sales income less costs and, almost always, the biggest cost for any business is the cost of labour.

So, businesses will not pay any more than they must for people. Why would anyone expect it to be otherwise?

An employer doesn’t care about what you think you’re worth.

Your worth to the business will be judged solely on the potential value you can add and the availability and demand for your skills and experience.

How do I measure the value I add?

Essentially value is another way of saying your skills and experience, dear reader.

Alternatively, for an entry-level job, your value would be your potential.

If an employer is seeking a junior staff member for training, then your aptitude and qualifications would be a proxy for the value you could potentially add once your training has been completed.

I think I’m worth more:

If you think you’re being paid less than you deserve, then you have two options: –

Go to your boss and request a raise; or
Test the (job) market.

Either way, you need to do your homework first.

Request a raise:

Before speaking to your boss about a raise, do some basic research on pay rates for similar jobs to yours with a requirement for the same skills and experience that you offer.

Also, identify at least three significant things that you do in your current role that make a real difference to the company. Ideally, these should be things only you can do.

Think also about how you might be able to do those things you do best more efficiently to improve your productivity.

Once you have all this information, you’re ready to justify why you think you deserve more.

Test the market:

Even if you’re otherwise happy with your current employer, it can be worth putting yourself about a bit in the job market, to see what other companies would be willing to pay you.

Apply for some other jobs and see what companies are willing to pay you.

And remember; most companies know that they’ll have to offer an uplift of at least 20% on your current salary to persuade you to take the risk of leaving your current employer, certainly if you’re highly skilled.

Once you have a suitable offer, you’ve then got two choices.

Either you accept the offer and move to the new employer, or you take that offer to your current employer and see whether they’re willing to match it.

I have done this more than once and it does work.

Given the cost to the employer of losing a highly valued member of the team, most employers will match an offer rather than lose you.

And if they’re actually willing to let you leave, then they didn’t value you and therefore you might as well go.

How do I earn more?

Another way to think about this is, how do you make yourself more valuable?

And you should be building your value, constantly.

If you want to earn more then learn more.

Work hard on building your experience too. Be willing and ready to accept new challenges, however daunting, for rough seas make skilled sailors.

Become the ‘go-to’ person for some activity that is perceived as valuable to the business.

Your focus should be on ‘what you’re becoming’ rather than any short-term gain and eventually, you have a good chance of becoming very valuable.

Think about it this way. Whatever you’re doing, you’re just there to serve customers and solve problems for them

There will always be customers for goods and services, some not even invented yet. Goods and services are another way of saying problems customers have which need a solution and you’re the provider of that solution.

The greater the skills and experience required to solve those problems the more you will earn, assuming you have those skills and experience.

Know the market rate:

Every business keeps a close eye on the market rates for given skills and experience. They do this to ensure that they’re not overpaying.

You should keep a close eye on market rates too, to ensure that you’re not being underpaid for what you’re doing.

In short, you must be very disciplined and business-like in your approach to work and selling your skills.

Think of yourself as a small business providing goods and services to your boss, your colleagues, and the customers of the company for which you work.

Conclusion:

You won’t get paid more than you’re worth.

However, if you increase your value by learning more, constantly, and building your skills and experience then you can earn more.

Choose a highly skilled discipline with high demand and an undersupply of potential candidates and you can earn a lot of money.

Please share this post on social media:

If you found this article useful then please share it on social media with your friends.

When you share, everyone wins.

Please share it now and I’ll be ever so grateful. You’ll be helping a keen blogger reach a wider audience.

Thank you for your support.

Articles that might also appeal to you:

Filed Under: Wisdom Tagged With: Attitude, Career, Earning Power, Happiness, How much should I be paid, Income, Inspiration, Life, Meaning, Motivation, Philosophy, Sage Advice, Wellbeing, Wisdom, Work

10 TIPS FOR IMPROVING SELF-ESTEEM

1. Stop comparing yourself to others:

2. Embrace your flaws:

3. Focus on the positive:

4. Surround yourself with positive people:

5. Treat yourself with kindness:

6. Set goals and achieve them:

7. Take care of yourself physically:

8. Practice emotional self-care:

9. Learn something new:

10. Give it time:

Conclusion:

Please share this post:

Other articles you might find interesting:

5 Effective Strategies for Busy Professionals:

Key Takeaways

Understanding Work-Life Balance

Significance of a Healthy Work-Life Balance

Common Challenges to Achieving Balance

Assessing Personal Needs

Identifying Personal Priorities

Setting Boundaries Between Work and Life

Strategies for Work-Life Integration

Time Management Techniques

Utilizing Flexible Schedules

The Role of Remote Work

Creating a Supportive Work Environment

Developing a Flexible Company Culture

Importance of Mental Health Services at Work

Maintaining Physical and Mental Well-being

Exercise and Physical Activity

Stress-Relief and Self-Compassion

Practical Tips for Everyday Balance

Incorporating Hobbies and Personal Interests

The Importance of Regular Breaks

Long-Term Advantages of Work-Life Balance

Boosting Job Performance and Productivity

Averting Burnout and Mental Exhaustion

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some strategies for improving work-life balance for women in demanding careers?

What techniques can companies implement to enhance work-life balance for their employees?

What are some common challenges faced when trying to achieve work-life balance and how can they be addressed?

What are the key benefits of maintaining a healthy work-life balance?

Can you provide innovative ideas that have been successful in achieving work-life balance?

What are some practical steps to take to establish a sustainable work-life balance?

Please share this post with your friends:

Other articles you might also find interesting:

Money’s not the answer:

Happiness is a state of mind:

The secret to happiness:

Please share this post on social media:

Articles that might also appeal to you:

Please share this post on social media:

Other articles that might appeal to you:

What’s the difference?

How to deal with constructive criticism:

Even constructive critics are not always right:

How to deal with destructive criticism:

Conclusion:

Please share this post with your friends:

Articles you might find interesting:

You might like to try these free games too:

Poem about friendship:

Please share this post on social media:

Articles you might also find interesting:

You might like to try these free games too:

Facts of life (1-10):

Facts of life (11-17):

Facts of life (18-25):

Please share this post with your friends:

Other articles you might find interesting:

You might like to try these free games too:

It must matter to you:

Make your mark:

It’s not work if you’d do it anyway:

If you haven’t found it, keep looking:

Please share this post:

Other articles you might find interesting:

You might like to try these free games too:

What is work?